State Sen. Balkema to collect Valentine’s Day cards for seniors

Drop off greetings at Pontiac, Dwight offices

Cards in the office of Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, that will soon be delivered to local seniors living in residential care facilities as part of “Valentines for Seniors” a card drive sponsored by Keicher and State Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Rockford.

With Valentine’s Day approaching next month, State Sen. Chris Balkema, R-Channahon, is asking for help to brighten the day of senior citizens across the 53rd Senate District.

“My hope is that everyone, especially those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, feels loved and remembered this Valentine’s Day,” Balkema said in a news release. “By leading with love and taking just a few moments to create a card, you can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life and show them they matter.”

To achieve his goal, Balkema is asking students, Scout groups, churches and other groups to consider creating homemade cards that will be delivered to nursing homes, assisted-living facilities and other long-term care facilities throughout the 53rd Senate District, which includes La Salle, Livingston, Grundy and Putnam counties.

Cards can be mailed or dropped off from now until Feb. 7. Drop off or mail your cards to either of these offices: Pontiac Office: 305 W. Madison St, Pontiac, IL 61764, or Dwight Office: 132 E. Main St, Dwight, IL 61738.

There will be a drop box inside the office during normal business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will be a small mailbox outside where cards can be dropped after hours.

For questions, contact mmays@sgop.ilga.gov.

Derek Barichello

Derek Barichello

Derek Barichello is the news editor for The Times in Ottawa and NewsTribune in La Salle, part of Shaw Local News Network, covering La Salle, Bureau and Putnam counties. He covers local and breaking news in the areas of government, education, business and crime and courts, among others.