Seniors from Mexico enjoy donated furniture from Encore Senior Village.
That was when they heard about a senior nursing home in Nogalas Sonora, Mexico. Asilo de Ancianos Franciscano is a senior nursing home run by the Sisters of the Order Hermanas Misioneras Franciscanas de Guadalupe. Founded in 1967, the community houses 32 seniors and operates solely on donations for their residents, who are either poor or have no one to take care of them. Seniors at Asilo de Ancianos Franciscano receive clothing, nourishment, medical care and a peaceful home.
Encore contacted Yvette D. Braun-Calixtro, who is a board member for the group home, to find out if they could donate gently used living room furniture.
“When we heard of the furniture, we were overwhelmed because our residents had very uncomfortable pieces made of wrought iron and the cushions were very thin,” said Braun-Calixtro.
In August, members of the order picked up Encore’s gently used living room couches, chairs as well as wheelchairs, walkers, and canes. Encore also purchased and donated adult incontinence supplies for the senior home.
“(Our residents) are so happy with the new furniture. The wheelchairs and different items Encore has donated have greatly impacted our residents, bringing costs down, which has been a tremendous help,” said Braun-Calixtro.
“It is a great feeling when you can help others less fortunate. Our staff has committed a large portion of their lives to helping seniors, and it is rewarding to see the joy we can bring to others,” said Encore’s Community Relations Coordinator Kelly Dodds.
“We are grateful to have crossed paths with such a wonderful staff and community like Encore,” said Braun-Calixtro.
Asilo de Ancianos Franciscano is still in need of donations. They are currently seeking a chair for the shower to aide seniors who have trouble moving around in the shower. They also welcome monetary donations. Donations can be made several ways. The community has an account at Chase bank under Asilo de Ancianos Franciscano. You can also donate through the Santa Cruz Community website at www.sccfaz.org. Donations through the website can be directed specifically to Asilo de Ancianos Franciscano with all proceeds impacting the senior nursing home.
