Christmas came a few days early for more than 60 senior residents of Trinity House and Saint Peter Apartments in Columbia. Chickies Rock Women of the Moose Chapter 724 coordinated the effort under its Joy of Giving community service campaign during the holiday season.

Kim Rightnour, fraternal activities chairman for the chapter, initially proposed the idea to the board of officers in early December. The idea was unanimously approved by the membership, and the project quickly grew into a community-sponsored mission. Rightnour, owner of Kim's Prim co., mentioned the project to a few of the neighboring small businesses in town, and without being asked, the other businesses donated to the effort.

The Women of the Moose initially hoped to provide a small gift for up to 25 aging community residents. Through donations from Moose members and local businesses, the initial budget of $150 expanded to over $500 in just a few days.

Rightnour and members of her committee delivered the gifts on Dec. 21. Karen, the residential coordinator at Trinity House, noted that the gifts were especially appreciated because some residents do not have any family members who would be visiting them over the holidays. Tatiana, residential coordinator at Saint Peter Apartments, met the Moose members in the lobby and helped to distribute the gifts.

Each wrapped gift contained something cozy, such as a fuzzy blanket, thick socks or a warm scarf; something sweet, like chocolates or other candy; and something fun, such as a puzzle or coloring book. Gift certificates and more were also donated, and personalized cards were included with the gifts. Marion of Columbia's Barber Shop also offered to provide in-home services to residents who were unable to get to his shop.

Additionally, the Women of the Moose sponsored two residents of Susquehanna Health and Wellness Center and fulfilled their Angel Tree wishes.

The Women of the Moose has been caring for others for more than a century. The Moose is an international organization of men and women dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children, seniors and communities. For more information, visit http://www.mooseintl.org.