Easter Baskets for Mental Health

It may not look like much, just a pile of boxes, but these represent a portion of the more than 2,600 Easter baskets that were distributed to persons in custodial care--nursing homes, shelters, mental hospitals and correctional facilites as part of the 54th annual Eve Elliott Easter Basket Project.

Each year, Mental Health America of Licking County contacts facilites throughout Licking County, as well as the state hospital in Columbus, to find out how many consumers they have. We also inquire about any special dietary restrictions, or facility regulations. Where there are diabetics, we provide a simple fruit tray, and where food items are not permitted, we provide a small stuffed animal.

Once a basket goal is established, an appeal letter is then sent out to the community inviting them to donate money, or completed Easter baskets.

Why do we do it? Because maintaining a sense of connectedness to family, friends and the community can play an important role in wellness and recovery. And while we can't personally contact every person in a custodial situation, a simple Easter greeting and a few pieces of candy, or some fresh fruit can assure them that they are cared for and not forgotten.

Our agency has coordinated this project for more than half a century because it works both for those who receive the baskets and for those who donate them. During this year's effort, it was remarkable to hear from many of the almost 100 donors who contributed to the project, how much they got out of it. We heard about family gatherings that were held for the express purpose of making baskets. We heard about Girl Scout and Brownie Troops that look forward to contributing every year. And we also heard from more than one donor who apologized for not being able to give more. In a time when non-profits in our area are seeing declining financial support, this project continues to benefit from a caring and generous community.

In addition to the basket and financial support, our agency received a surprise donation from the Community Leadership of Licking County. They were looking for a service project and decided to support our effort by delivering most of the baskets.

Thank you to all who contributed to the Project, we appreciate you and extend our best wishes for a happy Spring.