By Katie Crane

On Friday, May 15, residents and staff at The Campus of the Jewish Home of Greater Harrisburg were treated to their first car parade of community members in a show of solidarity and encouragement during the coronavirus pandemic.

Staff moved eager residents outside, in view of the paraders, and some even pitched in to direct traffic. More than 45 cars packed with community members and families of residents waved colorful signs and props. The signs shared encouraging messages for campus seniors and caregivers such as “Thank you for all you do” and “We miss you!” Supporters held signs, waved, and honked as they drove around the facility. Kids could be heard laughing and singing from the cars. Fortunately, impending rain held off, allowing residents and staff to sit along the Campus parking lot to get closer to the action. For some residents, this was the first time they’ve seen their loved ones in person in months.

“My absolute and deepest thanks to each and every one of you for organizing, promoting, and participating in today’s parade,” Allen Geckle, Campus CEO, saidin an email thanking participants. “The staff appreciated it and the residents absolutely loved being outside to enjoy it!”

This parade, organized by community members Abby Smith and Norman Gras, gave the public an opportunity to show appreciation for the heroes who care for our seniors and express how much residents are loved and missed. Since March, The Campus has restricted visitation and closely monitored activities in both buildings. As of May 22, there have been no cases of coronavirus in the entire facility thanks to our resilient staff and residents, our COVID-19 Taskforce, and community patience and support.

Due to safety guidelines, The Campus is currently closed to volunteers, but there are still ways you can help. We are accepting inspirational notes to staff and residents, pocket size hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, gloves, and face masks. Call 717-657-0700 to schedule a drop off in our vestibule. Monetary donations are also needed during this tough time and can be made at jewishhomeharrisburg.org/donate or mail a check to 4000 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112. All gifts are appreciated. Thank you to all who have donated.