But for some people, Christmas can be a lonely time, when gifts are few, with little opportunity of taking part in the activities most of us take for granted.

“Sometimes family members live in other states. Sometimes they are estranged from their family. Sometimes they have no family,” said Cindy Oglesby, managing local ombudesman of the Area Agency on Aging of the Permian Basin Regional Planning Commission.

“Some 3,000 residents living in the Permian Basin long term care facilities spend the holidays alone and feel forgotten,” she added.

As an ombudsman or advocate for those in nursing homes, Oglesby wants to see that they, too, have a bright Christmas experience.

The Silver Bells project asks residents throughout the Permian Basin to purchased new clothing and other items which will then be given to long term care residents for Christmas.

Suggested items include sweat suits, thermal socks, black and white classic DVD movies, large print crossword puzzle books, checkers, Yahtze games, gloves and T-shirts.

Of course, those who would rather give a monetary donation rather than purchase gifts are welcome to do so.

“With donations, we are able to provide a large item for the activity department so all of the residents can enjoy it. In the past we've provided foot spas, karaoke machines, even bread machines,” Oglesby said. “Now you might wonder why a bread machine would make any sense but for many of the residents the smell of baking bread brings back wonderful memories. And, the bread tastes good, so it's like an activity within an activity.”

Most people believe the facility should provide residents with those type items, but that's frequently not the case, Oglesby said.

“We help fill in the gaps to provide a better quality of life. This also helps the staff because having the residents happy is enjoyable for them, too,” she noted.

Most residents on Medicaid are allowed only $60 a month, and that money is used for needs such as hair appointments, an occasional trip to a restaurant or movie with other residents, and doesn't go far, Oglesby said.

“We try to provide extras for the residents, many of whom or not elderly. People forget sometimes that these facilities also care for victims of accidents and those with a disability,” Oglesby said.

Those interested in giving to the Silver Bells project — yes, Big Spring long term care facilities are part of the program — may bring their donations to the Big Spring Herald at 710 Scurry between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. They should be unwrapped but bagged, and marked “Silver Bells Project.” Those wanting to send monetary donations can mail a check or money order to The Silver Bells Project, P.O. Box 60660, Midland 79711-0660.

For more information, call Oblesby or Perla Ortiz at (432) 563-1061 or 1-800-491-4636.