Legacy Healthcare’s “Letters of Love” Program Matches Over 400 Residents With Pen Pals

SKOKIE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With the government-mandated restrictions on visitors to nursing homes in the wake of COVID-19, coupled with the closure of school systems across the nation, Legacy Healthcare launched a “Letters of Love” program last week with the intent of matching pen pals to help keep spirits up during this period.

Although it was initially designed to connect home-bound students with patients and residents, the program has now attracted interest from parents, community members, and individuals who have been subject to the quarantines themselves and they’re jumping on board to help these residents feel love.

“The response has been overwhelming. People from all over the country are reaching out to participate – it’s really heart-warming to see everyone coming together during this vulnerable time,” says Katy Shorkey, Director of Marketing. “We’ve even had other nursing facilities reaching out to match their residents with ours.”

With a little under a week’s time, Legacy has been able to match over 400 of its residents with volunteers for this program.

“We’re thrilled with the number of participants so far and I’m hoping it just continues to grow,” added Shorkey. “I’d love for all of our residents to receive a Letter of Love.”

This modern-day pen pal program asks willing participants to send letters and photos to residents. To get matched with a resident, please send an email to [e-mail].