Children Bring Seniors Holiday Gift Of Friendship, Song In East Harlem
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - It was a celebration for the young and old in East Harlem.
They came in like Santa's elves: Dozen of kindergartners from St. Ann School, stepping up and making a difference in the lives of their older neighbors.
"Because I love them," said Jose, a kindergartner.
The kindergarten class came jumping and clapping into the Carter Burden Network Senior Center in East Harlem ready to sing and spread holiday cheer to seniors.
"Even though they're small, there's things they can do," said teacher Megan Crusante.
The came bearing stockings full of gifts and with cards that each signed and delivered with a hug to each person.
"Different kinds of stuff that they like," said kindergartner Nazara.
"This experience is a life-changing experience, I believe, for children also to be able to see seniors and to enjoy their company," said Joseph Smith.
"It was a very exciting thing. Somebody hasn't given me a stocking in God knows how long," said Yvonne Hawkins.
"It feels great, feels good really does, I feel like crying," said Wilfredo Gonzalez.
About 28 percent of people age 65 or older live alone, according to the Administration on Community Living, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"The biggest issue with aging is loneliness and isolation, and you think of a city like New York, that doesn't happen, and in fact the isolation can be that much more," said Bill Dionne, executive director of the Carter Burden Network.
The Carter Burden Network makes it a point to address loneliness by hosting events like this to engage both the elderly and the community, reported CBS2's Charlie Cooper.
The kids jumped and clapped their way through a few familiar holiday tunes.
"I like singing in front of people," said kindergartner Jose.
The one gift that kept on giving in the room was the music. After opening their gifts a chorus of 25 seniors performed a holiday concert to give back to the little ones who so kindly gave to them.
"I just wanted to say that all these people are so kind to me," said kindergartner Jose.
"For some of them, they don't get to see their grandparents very often. So the idea that they get to see some folks that could be like family to them and to see them see our chorus singing as well, it's a great opportunity for everyone to be able to share in music," Dionne said.
Of the songs and stockings, the greatest gift they shared - companionship - couldn't be bought or wrapped.
