While reading through a Facebook post we noticed an interesting request from a woman named Sue who is affiliated with one of the area nursing homes or assisted living centers.

As anyone who has visited a nursing home will tell you, each place has a very devoted staff. They care for our most fragile citizens, somebody’s family member, and do so with all the love they can muster.

It is often a very lonely place for the residents. But in today’s world with all the rules banning visitors they are almost always alone and many can’t understand why they see no family or friends.

The woman who made the post asked for people to consider sending a note, either through social media or snail mail or whatever method you are comfortable using, to a nursing home which then can share it with one or more residents.

She wrote that she sees the residents check their mailboxes multiple times daily, even though most never get any personal mail.

They are happy to get the ads from places that think they are going to join an exercise gym or attend a meeting on how to prosper in retirement.

We want to second Sue’s motion for people to take the time to send a note. The elderly often love getting a word of encouragement or comfort so don’t be afraid to include a Bible verse, a poem or lyrics from a song (maybe from the ’40s or ’50s).

Why not make some good use of our shut-in days to cheer someone up? We all have extra time right now, and none of us have a good excuse not to do this.

You can send the cards and letters to any of the nursing homes, and address them to Butler County Loved Ones.

We feel sure the facilities will deliver or read them to residents or patients who are feeling lonely. If you don’t know of any nursing home residents; we suggest you send them to the Lowrie Place and the attention of Sue because that is who’s idea we just borrowed. The address for the Lowrie Place is 100 Stirling Village, Butler, PA 16001.

— RV