DHSS Press Release

DELAWARE HOSPITAL FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS TO ADOPT RESIDENTS FOR SEPT 12 FRIENDS & FAMILIES DAY

SMYRNA (July 28, 2015) - The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill (DHCI) is recruiting volunteers to adopt residents for its annual Friends & Families Day event on Saturday, Sept. 12, on the facility's grounds in Smyrna.

Boot Scootin' Family & Friends Day Bash, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., will include a DJ entertainment, a picnic lunch, watermelon, snow cones, popcorn, cotton candy, as well activities for kids including line dancing, water balloon toss, face painting, and mini-horse visits. The long-term care facility is at 100 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna.

Because many residents will not have loved ones or family members who can participate in the event, the facility is recruiting volunteers to adopt a resident for the day. Volunteers will escort residents to lunch, fun outdoor activities and special treat stations, while also spending quality time with the individuals.

"For individuals who volunteer to adopt residents, you will get back so much more than you give," Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Rita Landgraf said. "This annual event is an incredible way to give back and to spend quality time with residents of the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill."

Participants may bring a picnic lunch to share with a resident (any meal restrictions will be provided), or guests may enjoy a sub provided by Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill.

Groups and organizations are also welcome to adopt a resident. Depending on the size of the group, they may adopt a unit, which typically consists of 20 to 30 residents.

The long-term-care facility, which is operated by DHSS, has about 140 residents. Admission requires both a financial and a medical need.

If you or your group is interested in adopting a resident for Friends & Families Day, please contact Jennifer Bobel, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at Jennifer.Bobel@state.de.us or call 302-223-1011 no later than Wednesday, Aug. 26.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.