Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C-Lockport) was joined by 12 schools in the 144^th Assembly District this year for his annual Valentines for Seniors Program. The program aims to bridge connections between young people and seniors and offset feelings of loneliness or isolation people, especially seniors, may be feeling.

“As a lifelong Western New Yorker, I am so proud of this region because of the strong communities we have here, and that starts with connection,” said Norris. “In this changing world, with a stronger reliance on technology, it can be easy to feel left behind. It is essential to me that no one in our community feels that way, and this program is a small act of kindness we can do to build more connection and strengthen the fabric of our community.”

Norris wanted to give special thanks to all of the students and their teachers who handmade enough valentines for seniors at 10 nursing homes, assisted living facilities and senior centers within the district. The participating schools this year include: Barker Junior/Senior High School, DeSales Catholic School, Douglas J. Regan Intermediate School, George M. Southard Elementary School, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary School, Newfane Elementary School, Pratt Elementary School, Roy B. Kelley Elementary School, Royalton-Hartland Elementary School, Sheridan Hill Elementary School, St. Mary School and Wilson Elementary School.

Current senior facilities that will be receiving the valentines for this year’s program include: Briarwood Manor, Mount View, Heritage Manor of Lockport, Absolut Center For Nursing, Lockport Rehab and Health Care Center (Briody), Bristol Village, Brothers of Mercy, Vinecroft Retirement Community, Clarence Senior Center and GreenField Court Assisted Living Facility.