“Shine Your Light” Holiday Card Project Brings Cheer to Cornwall’s Hospitals and Nursing Homes

It may feel early to think about Christmas, but when it comes to spreading holiday cheer, some projects take time and preparation. That’s why the residents of Cornwall, SD&G, The Nation, and Prescott & Russell are already coming together for the “Shine Your Light” Holiday Card Project. The initiative calls on the community to create 3,000 handmade holiday cards to be distributed to local hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living residences. With so many cards needed, it’s never too soon to get started on this heartwarming cause.

How You Can Get Involved

The project invites people of all ages to get creative and craft their own holiday cards. The cards must be handmade, bilingual (in both English and French), and free of glitter and envelopes. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just enjoy crafting, this is an opportunity to use your talents to make someone’s day a little brighter.

These cards are not just a way to connect with others but also a chance to take a break from screens, focus on creativity, and improve your mental well-being. Schools, clubs, church groups, and families are all encouraged to participate in this fun and meaningful activity. Quality over quantity is key—each card is meant to be a heartfelt gesture.

What Should the Cards Look Like?

The organizers suggest cards made from paper folded in half or card stock in sizes like 5×6.5 or 7×10 inches. You can use a variety of materials such as markers, crayons, watercolors, or even fabric to decorate your card. Elderly residents often enjoy cards they can feel, so adding textures like fabric or ribbons is a wonderful idea. Photos you’ve taken can also be printed and glued onto the cards.

What to Write Inside

The message inside should be uplifting and cheerful. Simple greetings like “Best wishes,” “Thinking of you,” or “Happy Holidays” work well. It’s important to avoid phrases like “Get well soon” as they may not be appropriate. The goal is to bring positivity and joy, so feel free to let your creativity flow. Every card should be signed with at least your first name, making the gesture feel personal and sincere.

Where to drop off?

The seeker will collect HomeMade cards (no envelopes!) between December first and December 8. You can simply drop your cards off in the red bin on the right/east side of our red building (327 Second Street East) at any time.

Volunteers Welcome

The cards will be delivered in person by volunteers or staff members at the hospitals and nursing homes. If you’d like to volunteer to hand out cards, contact the organizers or leave a note at the card drop-off locations. Volunteers are encouraged to dress festively—think Santa hats and red outfits—and to make their card delivery experience special with baskets or decorations.

Due to health protocols, some homes may not allow in-person deliveries, but the cards will still reach the residents through staff members.

Join the Fun on Social Media

Participants are invited to share their beautiful creations on the “HomeMade Cards and SnailMail” Facebook group. Sharing online helps spread the word about the project, inspiring more people to get involved and create even more holiday cheer.

Spread the Joy

This initiative is not limited to Cornwall—if you’d like to start a Shine Your Light card event in your own community, feel free to do so! Spread joy, get people crafting, and brighten the holidays for those who need it most. Let the light of kindness shine this holiday season!

For more information and to get involved, visit the Facebook group: HomeMade Cards and SnailMail.

Let’s all come together to make this holiday season a little brighter for everyone!