Cub Scouts Provide Holiday Cheer to Local Nursing Home Residents

The holidays are generally time for families to gather and spend quality time together. But the fact of the matter is, some will have to spend this time far away from loved ones.

Ellington Cub Scouts from Den 1, Pack 77 took time Sunday afternoon to decarate Christmas cards and deliver them to those who may need a little extra cheer this season - residents of Enfield's Blair Manor nursing home.

The 15 wolves gathered at Sunday, armed with construction paper, markers and decorative items, to make cards for the nursing home residents, which they then hand delivered along with a few Christmas carols.

The effort went a long way with seniors at the home, according to John McTighe, whose son is in the pack.

"Some of their faces lit up when they were handed their card," he said. "I'm actually surprised how much of an effect it had on some people."

The card delivery project also benefits the cub scouts, as the work they did on Sunday is aimed at teaching them about giving back and the values of the Cub Scout motto and promise, which, according to Den Leader Roger Mandeville, include doing your best; obeying the law of the pack and helping others.

"Goodwill is a hard word for young kids," said McTighe. "This is a perfect example for them to understand our core values and what it means to help others."