This Teen Is Bringing Some Color And Fun To The Elderly This Holiday Season

December 6, 2023

Today's good news story comes from Stockton, California.

A teenager from Stockton is ensuring that the elderly aren't overlooked this holiday season, by spreading joy and warmth through her Silly Socks initiative.

Elle Gianelli | Credit: Socks4Seniors

Elle Gianelli, a high school junior, says she proudly identifies as a "grandma's girl," expressing profound love for her nana.

It was during her seventh-grade year that she conceived "Socks 4 Seniors," a thoughtful venture aimed at delivering whimsical Silly Socks to residents at local nursing and assisted living facilities.

The primary objective is to inject vibrancy and fun into the lives of seniors through colorful footwear.

Credit: Socks4Seniors / Facebook

Over the span of four years, Elle has dispatched socks to an impressive 92 facilities spanning 48 states, fostering numerous PenPal connections along the way.

"This means a pair of silly socks have made it on the feet of 4,812 lovely recipients (and we're just getting started)," she said.

Elle acknowledges the hardships confronted by nursing home residents amid the holiday season, expressing concern that they are frequently neglected and overlooked.

"I know they have Toys for Tots and things for kids you know and you always seem to forget about seniors," she told CBS Sacramento.

Credit: Socks4Seniors / Facebook

As she prepares her shipments of socks this holiday season, she's hoping to show them that someone cares. In order to reach as many seniors as possible, Elle launched a GoFundMe campaign to secure funds.

"My heart is so full and it is because of the generosity of all of you so I wanted to extend a special thank you!" she wrote. "I also have big plans for 2024 to keep things going and reach even more seniors near (and maybe far). Stay tuned and many blessings to you all!"

Watch the good news video below.