Santa for Seniors continues to grow

• Village News

Sonia Lim 23 Dec 2025

The festive spirit was palpable at RFBI Armidale Masonic Village this festive season as a mountain of colourful packages arrived for a very special delivery: the annual ‘Santa for Seniors’ present drop-off.

Since its humble beginnings in 2016, the Santa for Seniors program has become a cornerstone of the Christmas season in the Armidale region. What started as a mission to provide a single gift to a resident who might not otherwise receive one has blossomed into a massive community-led movement.

In its first year, the program supported just one aged care facility. Fast forward to today, and the initiative has expanded its reach to cover six aged care facilities across the Armidale, Uralla and Guyra regions. Most impressively, the program ensures that every single resident residing within these villages receives a gift on Christmas Day.

What makes Santa for Seniors truly unique is the personal connection involved. Rather than generic hampers, each gift is specifically chosen.

RFBI staff members spend time sitting with residents, asking them what they would truly like for Christmas. These wish lists are then shared with the community and local residents generously purchase the items. This thoughtful process ensures that every gift is meaningful to the person receiving it.

The present drop-off at RFBI Armidale was a highlight. The common areas were filled with chatter and excitement as the gifts were delivered, ready to be placed under the tree for Christmas morning.

RFBI extends a heartfelt thank you to the organisers of Santa for Seniors and to every member of the public who took the time to shop for a resident. Your kindness has ensured a very Merry Christmas for all.

Read more festive stories from our villages by clicking here.