The holiday season is upon us, and for many of us, it is a time for thankfulness and gratitude. It is also a time for giving, sharing, and remembering those around us who may be less fortunate, in need, or alone. I am thankful and grateful that I live in this community of Tualatin, a community that cares about and offers resources to our senior citizens, families, and individuals who may be struggling or feeling isolated. We are a community that doesn’t hesitate to provide a hand up to help and support not only those in need but also the organizations that provide their own resources for a helping hand up.
First, be aware of your neighbors, especially if they are alone or elderly, especially during the holiday season. Watch for lights to come on in the evening, activity in and out of the home. Share some holiday treats or decorations. If anything looks amiss, check it out. It’s not interfering to knock on the door to check on someone. It is a show of kindness.
Second, Tualatin has several non-profit organizations that can help us help others, whether they are seniors or families and children in need. When grocery shopping for holiday dinners, pick up extras for the Tualatin Food Pantry. When cleaning out your closets, donate your gently used clothes to the Caring Closet for our houseless children and children in need.
Tualatin Food Pantry: located on the lower level of the Rolling Hills Community Church, 3550 SW Borland Road, 503-783-0721, tualatinfoodpantry.org. There is no charge for the food received, which is enough for a family of four for 3-5 days. Canned and non-perishable food items, toiletries, paper products and pet food are always welcomed.
The Caring Closet: located at the Tigard-Tualatin School District offices, 9000 SW Durham Road, Tigard, 503-431-5400, ttsdschools.org/resources/caring-closet. The Caring Closet’s mission is to provide free, clean clothes and shoes, hygiene products and emergency bedding supplies to children within the Tigard-Tualatin School District.
Third, don’t forget the other resources in Tualatin that provide care or opportunities to be social and active, like the Tualatin Library, the Juanita Pohl Senior Center, medical care at the Borland Free Clinic, and free transportation to get where you need to go by calling Ride Connection, 503-226-0700. Also, our service clubs, Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary, Elks, help and support our community. Many of our local businesses always say yes to helping. And there is our community family of churches and schools who step up.
One, two and three are a small glimpse into what the community of Tualatin is all about. I, for one, am thankful and grateful to live in a community surrounded by all of the above. I hope you are, too.
While you are sharing and caring, don’t forget to enjoy the holiday spirit right here at home and around the area. Here are just a few holiday events coming up:
City Of Tualatin Light Parades: tualatinoregon.gov/recreation/tualatin-light-parades for neighborhood routes and more information.
Zoo Lights: www.oregonzoo.org
Holiday Express: www.mthoodrr.com
Christmas Festival Of Lights: thegrotto.org
Pir Lights: winterwonderlandportland.com
Christmas Ship Parade: christmasships.org
Thank you for caring and sharing. Happy Holidays to all from the Tualatin Aging Task Force.
