Elves take over Island Nursing to spread holiday cheer

Staff at Island Nursing and Rehab Center, part of the Gurwin Healthcare System, hosted a festive “Dress Like an Elf” party on Christmas Eve, bringing holiday cheer to residents of the 120-bed facility.

Dressed with pointy ears, holiday hats and sweaters, staff handed out gifts tailored to each resident’s personality and needs as part of the center’s annual “Giving Tree” tradition. A staff member dressed as Santa pushed a cart decorated like Santa’s sleigh, while another played piano tunes to create a joyful atmosphere.

For residents unable to attend the gathering, gifts were delivered directly to their rooms.

“It makes me very happy,” said Bill McCarthy, 77, a resident at the center. “I’m usually alone around the holidays, so this is my family. I feel good with them. They’re always there for me.”

“The residents are second family and we’re here with them even more than we’re home with our own families,” added Alexis Browning, director of Therapeutic Recreation. “We want to make them feel like they’re home for the holidays too.”