DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Christmas wishes are waiting to be answered as SARCOA Area Agency on Aging announces the opening of its 2026 Santa 4 Seniors wish lists, giving Wiregrass residents an opportunity to brighten the holidays for older adults in need.
According to SARCOA, the annual program provides Christmas gifts, groceries, cleaning supplies and other essentials to low-income, isolated and homebound seniors across seven Wiregrass counties.
“Their Christmas wishes have been sent. Now, they’re waiting for an answer,” SARCOA shared in its announcement.
SARCOA case managers select seniors with the greatest financial needs, many of whom live alone and have limited resources. Each year, hundreds of seniors participate in the program.
Common requests include groceries, nutritional supplements such as Ensure, bed linens, slippers, heaters and assistance with utility bills.
Each participating senior has requested one special gift, along with essential items to help meet everyday needs.
SARCOA has already purchased groceries and cleaning supplies to ensure every senior receives those necessities. Sponsors are asked to help cover those costs in addition to purchasing gifts from the senior’s wish list.
Community members can participate in three ways:
– Sponsor a Senior: Choose a senior’s wish list and purchase requested gifts and essentials.
– Volunteer: Help organize, prepare and deliver hundreds of gifts and essential items.
– Donate: Make a monetary contribution to help fulfill remaining wishes and provide needed supplies.
Individuals, families, churches, businesses, workplaces and community organizations are encouraged to participate.
How to Sponsor a Senior
Seniors are listed by county on SARCOA’s website. Those interested can select a senior, complete the registration form and shop for items on the senior’s wish list.
An Amazon wish list is also available for those who prefer to shop online.
Gift Drop-Off Location and Dates
Gifts will be collected at the former National Guard Armory, located at 2755 Choctaw St. in Dothan, near the intersection of Westgate Parkway and Choctaw Street.
Donors should enter through the armory gate and proceed to the blue warehouses at the back of the property.
Gift drop-off dates are:
– Saturday, Dec. 5: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
– Friday, Dec. 11: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Saturday, Dec. 12: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SARCOA case managers and volunteers will deliver the gifts to participating seniors before Christmas.
Monetary Donations Also Needed
In addition to purchasing gifts, residents can make monetary donations to help cover grocery baskets, utility bills and certain medical needs, including dental care.
Donations can be made online through PayPal using SARCOA’s website. Cash and checks can also be delivered to SARCOA’s office on Brannon Stand Road in Dothan or brought to the gift collection site during designated hours.
Those interested in sponsoring a senior, volunteering or donating can visit “sarcoa.org” (https://sarcoa.org) to view available wish lists and learn more about the program.
“Their wishes are waiting for someone like you,” SARCOA said.
Image Source – SARCOA
