The Boyne Lodge Campus Charity (BLCC) recently sprinkled some holiday magic across Carman’s Boyne Lodge and Boyne Towers, lighting up the season with joy and vibrant decorations.
Last year, the BLCC’s support brought festive lights, Christmas trees, poinsettias, and stockings to the residents. This year, they’ve outdone themselves by adding even more Christmas trees, charming snowman families, presents to fill the stockings, and a plethora of decorations.
BLCC Committee Chair Kelly Seward shared, “This is a joint effort of our group and the staff at Boyne Lodge and Boyne Towers. It is looking very festive.”
The mission of the BLCC is to enhance the lives of those living in the Lodge and the Towers. Seward added, “When the assisted living facility is built, that will also be included as well.”
Established in 1967, the BLCC has evolved over the years, becoming a recognized charity in 1998. Recently, they played a key role in the construction of this beautiful new facility in town, collaborating with five municipalities. Thanks to generous donations from several bequests, the BLCC has been able to fund various projects, including historical wall hangings and aerial photos from 1957, aimed at stimulating memories among the residents.
One of their most beloved additions is the Tover Tafel, a table with interactive games. The charity also coordinates volunteers for landscaping tasks, ensuring the outdoor spaces are just as inviting as the indoors. “This year, the focus on Christmas decorations has truly transformed the facility into a festive haven. The poinsettias, with their vibrant reds and greens, bring a homey, festive feel to the space,” Seward says.
Boyne Towers Support for Seniors in Group Living worker Lois Froese expressed her gratitude for the BLCC’s generosity. “They’ve been very giving in so many aspects of our lives at the Towers. We very much appreciate all that they do for us throughout the year.”
The new Christmas tree at the Towers, adorned with LED lights, became a centerpiece of joy for the residents at the seniors’ apartment complex. Froese shared, “We enjoyed putting the tree up together as a group. Afterwards, we sang Christmas carols and talked about Christmases gone by. It’s a really wonderful way to do it.”
She adds that the huge, beautiful poinsettia also brought back fond memories for many, brightening up the room and their hearts.
The festive colours and lights inspired residents to reminisce about Christmas pageants and childhood decorations. “They shared stories of Christmas baking and the things they love most about the holiday season,” Froese says.
“The dedication of the volunteers, who raise funds and spend time enhancing the lives of Boyne Towers and Boyne Lodge residents, is truly heartwarming. There are a lot of loving hearts there. They’re an amazing group of people. They’re making the holiday season a little brighter and a lot more special for everyone.”
Bringing a little extra hominess to the facility, the BLCC’s efforts ensure that despite limited healthcare budgets, the residents enjoy the warmth and comfort of a true holiday home. “It warms my heart to bring a little bit more hominess. Plants, trees, puzzles… they’re all important,” Seward says.
Standard Photos by Kelly Seward
