In an effort to lift the spirits of the 19 elders at the Ochekwi Sipi Cree Nation Personal Care Home during the cold winter months, Kacie Sinclair, the activity director, initiated a Valentine’s Day card campaign inspired by a similar project in the U.S. This initiative was aimed at connecting with the isolated community and bringing some festive cheer through greetings and well-wishes.

The response was overwhelming, with the Fisher River post office inundated with daily deliveries of Valentine’s cards from across Canada. Sinclair noted that the care home staff received bins full of cards every day, surpassing their expectations by accumulating more than 2,000 greetings intended for the elders. Each elder was provided with a basket filled with these heartfelt messages, making this Valentine’s Day particularly memorable for them.

For the elders, many of whom had never experienced such a display of love, this outpouring of kindness provided not only joy but also a sense of connection to people beyond their immediate community. The project highlights the power of compassion, especially during tough seasons, and portrays how Canadians came together to honor and celebrate their seniors during a time often perceived as lonely.