MGR Donates Blankets to Caring House

December 16, 2022

Kyle Knox

Managing Editor

Dec. ushers in gifts and holiday cheer for many, and this year is no different, specifically for the residents of Gila River Health Care’s Caring House skilled nursing facility. 

On Sunday, Dec. 4, Miss Gila River 2022-23 Kelsey Martinez gathered with her court, family, and the Akimel O’odham/ Pee-Posh Youth Council members to create special handmade blankets for the Caring House residents. 

Miss Gila River Kelsey Martinez’s goal was to create a unique and practical gift for the elders for use this winter.  It is predicted that this year’s winter will be colder than the last, so she hopes they can enjoy the gift and brighten up their days at the Caring House. 

“Since being crowned, I haven’t been able to do much for the elders at the Caring House due to COVID-19 restrictions,” said Martinez.  “This was my way to show them that we are thinking of them, they’re not forgotten, and we care about them.” 

The blankets are fashioned by knotting two fleece blankets on the ends, creating a thicker blanket with a unique handmade look. 

“It feels great to give back to the Community, specifically to our elders, and it’s a very wholesome experience making these blankets today,” said Jr. Miss Gila River First Attendant Caiden Lewis.  She feels it is meaningful to think about others during this time, not take what we have for granted, and help others in need when possible. 

“I think it’s very important to show how grateful we are for our elders, especially those that are at the Caring House since COVID restrictions are in place again due to rising cases,” said 2022-23 Jr. Miss Gila River Eliana Rhodes.  Rhodes also enjoyed the day creating the blankets and wanted to remind everyone of how important the elders are.  She stated, “Our elders are our knowledge keepers so interact and spend as much time with them but do it safely.”

The Miss Gila River court thanks everyone that helped contribute their time to make the blankets. 

The completed blankets were delivered to the Caring House Sunday,  Dec. 18.