Help make growing older a little sweeter this year... meet Ruth and Gordon

This time of year is often full of little joys. A favorite holiday treat. A special recipe. A new flavor at the end of the grocery aisle you didn't expect to find. For many older neighbors in Yellowstone County, those simple pleasures have become harder to reach. When driving is no longer possible, when mobility is limited, or when health challenges make everyday errands difficult, even a trip to the grocery store can feel out of reach. And during the holiday season, that loss of independence can make the days feel especially long and quiet.

That's why your support of Allies in Aging matters so much. Because of caring people like you, volunteers like Ruth and Gordon can step in to help. As Pantry Pal volunteers, Ruth and Gordon shop for neighbors who can no longer shop for themselves. They carefully fill every grocery order, delivering necessities that help older adults remain healthy and independent at home. The giving goes both ways, too: our volunteer program helps older adults like Ruth and Gordon stay connected and purposeful. Whenever they can, they add one small surprise. Recently, a client requested only no-sugar apple juice. Ruth and Gordon brought that, along with a half-gallon of no-sugar peach mango juice. Just because.

“If they can't go for themselves,” Ruth says, “how do they know what's new?” It may seem like a small gesture. But to the person receiving it, that unexpected treat means someone is thinking about them. Someone cares enough to bring not only what they need, but something that might bring a moment of joy.

That's the gift you make possible. Your generosity helps ensure older adults have nutritious meals, transportation to medical appointments, help at home, and meaningful connections that combat loneliness and isolation.

Ruth recently reflected on her own future and the peace of mind she feels knowing Allies in Aging is here if she ever needs help. “I know if I need something,” she says, “where I need to go.” Because of you, more older adults can have that same certainty. As Ruth puts it, “We're not done yet.” With your generous gift today, neither are we. Thank you for helping older adults age with dignity, independence, and connection.

Behind every number is a neighbor who was able to remain safe, healthy, and independent in the place they call home. This holiday season, will you help put a little “peach mango” into someone else's life?

A gift of $50 can help provide a nutritious meal.
A gift of $100 can help ensure a ride to an essential appointment.
A gift of $300 or more helps us say “yes” to more older adults who need support in the year ahead.

Give Today

Last year, with support from donors like you,

Allies in Aging:

Shared 121,028 meals
Provided 10,062 hours of in-home care
Delivered 4,922 rides
Helped older adults save $886,000 in Medicare costs
Engaged more than 300 volunteers who contributed 28,682 hours of service