By Tim Mastro

SMYRNA — The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is asking community members to sponsor its residents for the holidays.

Since many tenants have little family involvement, the nursing home relies on the generosity of neighbors, local businesses and community organizations to fulfill wishes through the Adopt-a-Resident program.

“The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is truly grateful for the continued generosity and kindness of those who step forward to make a difference for our residents over the holidays and throughout the year,” said Melissa Smith, director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults With Physical Disabilities, which operates the hospital.

The facility, at 100 Sunnyside Road in Smyrna, is dedicated to comprehensive nursing home services for Delawareans who have no other option for their care.

Members of the community, as individuals or as groups, can participate in Adopt-a-Resident in one of three ways:

• Sponsors can be provided with the wish list of a resident, then buy the items and deliver them unwrapped in a gift bag to the Medical Administration Building lobby weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:40 p.m.
• Donate a gift card or check and leave the shopping to the staff. Donations may be mailed to the Volunteer Services Office, Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, 100 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna, DE 19977.
• Buy from the list of suggested gifts that coordinators can provide. During the holidays, these items are utilized to fill gift bags for residents who have not been adopted, and during the rest of the year, they are used to fill birthday bags and special requests.

To participate in Adopt-a-Resident, email tina.wagner@delaware.gov or call 302-223-1011.