Gifts to give

     Gifts to give at any time that won’t cost any (or much) money

1    Smile at people
it just might make their day.
2    Give hugs
to everybody.  
3    Call those who live alone.
They just may need to hear another voice.  If family is near, they may be busy. And if you say you’ll call, call.  They will be waiting for your phone call and it is a bit upsetting when you don’t call.  They hear from medical people all the time. Hearing from friends can be the best medicine for them.
4    Open doors for people you see.        
They just might need the help.
5    Tell someone you care for them.       
People living alone can get depressed easily.  You might be able to change someone’s outlook. If they’re a shut in, hearing you even like them can be the best medicine for them.
      6 Offer to help
             This might cost you some money for gas, but if family is near, they may be all busy with
              work.
7      Ask if they would like company.   
If you have some time, single folk, especially seniors, appreciate visits from friends or family.       
     8 Offer transportation to the store,
            to events, or to church.  There may not be anybody else to drive an older person to
           where they want or need to go.        
  9    Share a meal with them.  If possible, let the person pay for the meal.  It will help them
          feel good about themselves.
 10    Bring them a home cooked meal.
          Something you cooked yourself is always welcome, provided it is something they can or     
          will eat.

11.   Call them (or email) and offer to come by just for conversation.  
        Sometimes the silences can be too much and the TV doesn’t always fill the void.

12.  If you are allowed by your church, offer to come and give communion.
       We sometimes forget that the rituals of faith can be comforting to shut-ins.

13      Visit those who are in nursing homes regularly.  They often feel lost and forgotten by everyone who they know.

14     It's not necessary to bring anything, just yourself is enough. If you bring items, be sure they have room for what you bring. If you bring food, be sure it is something they can eat.