Cranbrook local Linda Holt has dedicated decades to supporting residents at the FW Green Home, according to the East Kootenay Foundation for Health (EKFH).
The F.W. Green Home in Cranbrook is a long-term care facility with 60 publicly funded beds.
Holt says her involvement began in the early 1980s, when a delivery of Valentine’s Day cards from a Sunday school class to residents showed her how much seniors in long-term care could benefit from stronger community connections.
Over the years, she worked alongside her late husband, Don, and local groups including the Jaycettes, Cranbrook United Church Women, and Cranbrook University Women’s Club to coordinate Christmas gifts for residents.
“The smiles and bright eyes of the residents filled our hearts with joy as we delivered gifts on Christmas day,” Holt recalls.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Holt said her mission required a new approach.
Instead of in-person gift deliveries, she began coordinating donations through the home’s recreation department.
EKFH says her team has since helped fund items such as a video projector, big screen, sound system, and a cotton candy machine, creating a “drive-in” movie experience accessible to residents in walkers and wheelchairs.
Holt is now fundraising for a Tovertafel (“Magic Table”) projector, a $20,000 interactive device that turns any surface into games designed to improve motor skills, eye coordination, and social interaction for residents, including those living with dementia.
So far, $5,005 has been raised, supported by donors and a contribution from StellerVista Credit Union.
EKFH is backing the project, citing that it will have a positive impact on the quality of life at FW Green Home.
Donations can be made through the FW Green Home Fund at ekfh.ca, by phone at 250-489-6481, or in person at the EKFH office in the East Kootenay Regional Hospital lobby.
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