Dear Editor:

A week before Christmas my daughter and I wrapped up the second annual Socks for Seniors project where we collected socks and a variety of items from 16 area business locations which were presented to the local nursing and rehabilitation facilities and distributed as Christmas gifts.Since many of the residents may have no family or visitors, this ensures that everyone receives something for Christmas and no one is forgotten.The TIMES NEWS, Channel 13 and radio coverage assisted in informing the public and the rest was up to you.Donations filled the boxes in area businesses from Lehighton to Tamaqua, including Penn's Peak Radio, Midas, Lehighton Kia, Mauch Chunk 5 & 10, Classic Beverage, Hiles Brothers, The Batter's Box, St Gabe's Italian Club, The Sports Zoo, JJ's Hair and Tanning, First Niagara Bank, Angela Theatre, Tommy's Italian Restaurant, Dr Stephen Puddu's office, Rottet Motors and M&S Hardware.An overwhelming response enabled us to distribute two pairs of socks or a combination of gifts to each of the residents in The Summit, Mahoning Valley, Edgemont Lodge, St. Luke's and Hometown Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers.No matter how young or old, the delight on a recipient's face is absolutely priceless when they receive gifts from Santa. You may not realize how important a pair of socks or box of soft tissues actually is, but it does make a difference. Some donated beautifully handcrafted items which emphasizes how people take this project to heart.Thank you to all of you whose generous donations helped to make the holidays merry and bright for over 450 important friends in the area nursing and rehab centers who may have been forgotten if it wasn't for thoughtfulness.Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year,Mary Ann Dulaney and Jess KutzaSocks for Seniors Project 2013