The holiday season brought moments of connection, comfort, and celebration to seniors and adults with special needs at Community Housing Partners (CHP) rental communities through the Warm Wishes program. Led by CHP’s Resident Services team, the annual initiative delivered thoughtful gifts and meaningful experiences to residents in both Virginia and Maryland.
This year, Warm Wishes benefited 828 residents across 31 CHP communities. Through a combination of direct sponsorships and general donations, 103 residents were personally adopted by donors, and $2,108 was raised to help provide gifts for additional participants. The program was supported by 34 volunteers who contributed 42 hours to purchasing, packing, and distributing gifts.
Beyond the gifts themselves, Warm Wishes created opportunities for residents to come together during a season that can be especially isolating. At Bluegrass Apartments in Pulaski, Virginia, the celebration included games, crafts, and shared meals, offering residents a chance to connect with neighbors and enjoy the holiday spirit as a community.
“Many residents are alone during the holidays, but not here at Bluegrass,” said Senior Services Coordinator April Casino. One resident shared that their Warm Wishes gift was the only present they received all year and that it was “exactly what they asked for.”
At Ephphatha Village in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Warm Wishes celebration reflected the deep sense of care residents have for one another. With gifts once again provided by members of Park Street Christian Church, residents helped prepare for the gathering and worked alongside staff to ensure no one was left out, including neighbors who were temporarily hospitalized.
“What started as a party became a care plan for those who couldn’t be there,” said Resident Services Senior Services Coordinator Laura McAfee. “It was a wonderful combination of fun and laughter, community, and caring.”
Across CHP communities in Virginia and Maryland, Warm Wishes served as a reminder that simple acts of care can have a powerful impact. Through shared meals, thoughtfully chosen gifts, and neighbors looking out for one another, the program continued to brighten the holidays for residents with the support of staff, volunteers, and community partners.
The next Warm Wishes campaign will launch in October 2026.
Founded in 1975, Community Housing Partners (CHP) provides quality-built, responsibly managed, service-enriched homes for low-income individuals and families across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Through its mission to create homes and communities that are healthy, sustainable, and affordable, CHP has been a leading advocate of affordable housing development for 50 years. CHP’s activities include real estate development, construction, energy services and training, asset management, property management, realty and homeownership, and comprehensive resident services.