Wilmington, Delaware – This holiday season, the YMCA of Delaware is proud to partner with Project Comfort, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to bringing care, comfort, and connection to seniors in nursing homes who often face profound isolation. Together, they’re calling on the community to help provide warmth and joy by donating new, plush, and colorful throw blankets for seniors across Delaware.
Through the support of local organizations like the YMCA of Delaware, Project Comfort aims to deliver over 3,000 blankets, handwritten cards, and personal visits to seniors this season, reminding them they are valued members of our community.
How to Participate
Community members are encouraged to donate new, plush, and colorful throw blankets at YMCA of Delaware locations through Friday, November 28, 2025. Donations will be collected at the designated bins located in each branch lobby and later delivered to Project Comfort for distribution to local nursing homes in time for the holidays.
Blanket Donation Guidelines
- All blankets must be new (unused and unwrapped)
- Preferably soft, plush, and colorful throws
- Donations accepted through Friday, November 28
“The Y is excited to join forces with Project Comfort in spreading warmth and kindness to those who need it most,” said Linda Risk, Chief Operating Officer at the YMCA of Delaware. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening community connections and supporting every individual’s well-being during the holiday season.”
“Together, we can make a difference for those who often feel forgotten,” said Helana Rodriguez, Founder of Project Comfort. “A small gesture like a cozy blanket or a kind message can bring immense comfort and remind our seniors they are loved.”
YMCA of Delaware Blanket Drive Drop-Off Locations
- Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA – 351 George Williams Way, Newark, DE 19702
- Brandywine YMCA – 3 Mount Lebanon Road, Wilmington, DE 19803
- Dover YMCA – 35 S. State Street, Dover, DE 19901
- Middletown Family YMCA – 202 E. Cochran Street, Middletown, DE 19709
- Sussex Family YMCA – 20080 Church Street, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
- Walnut Street YMCA – 1000 N. Walnut Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
- Western Family YMCA – 2600 Kirkwood Highway, Newark, DE 19711
Why It Matters
The need for connection among seniors is profound:
- 60% of nursing home residents do not receive a single visitor
- 43% of seniors report feeling lonely on a daily basis
- 50% of socially isolated seniors are at risk of developing dementia
By donating a blanket, or by sponsoring one senior for $25, you can help Project Comfort provide warmth, a handwritten card, and a meaningful visit that brightens someone’s holiday season.
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed longstanding relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing, and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org.
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