The tradition began with a Summerset resident who had supported Shriners Children’s for many years. Photo courtesy of Summerset Senior Living

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - A group of Rancho Cordova seniors at Summerset Senior Living recently made a special delivery to Shriners Children’s Northern California — around 50 teddy bears, each dressed in a miniature T-shirt decorated with colorful artwork and encouraging messages. 

For the fourth year, residents at Summerset Senior Living’s Rancho Cordova and Lincoln communities came together for the project before personally delivering the finished bears to Shriners Children’s in Sacramento.

The tradition began with a Summerset resident who had supported Shriners Children’s for many years. The activities team wanted to find a different, hands-on way for her to continue giving back to an organization that meant so much to her. What started with one resident’s connection soon became a tradition shared by both communities.

For the fourth year, residents at Summerset Senior Living’s Rancho Cordova and Lincoln communities came together for the project before personally delivering the finished bears to Shriners Children’s in Sacramento. Photo courtesy of Summerset Senior Living

The teddy bears are given to children receiving care at Shriners, offering a little extra comfort during their time at the hospital.

“Our residents have spent their lives caring for others and giving back to their communities,” said Raza Khushal, Regional Engagement Director at Summerset Senior Living. “Projects like this give them the opportunity to keep doing that while connecting with a younger generation.”

Four years later, residents continue to look forward to decorating the bears, making the trip to Sacramento and seeing a simple idea turn into something that can brighten a child’s day.

For the Rancho Cordova residents involved, it’s a reminder that giving back can happen at any age — sometimes all it takes is a teddy bear and a little heart.