Henry County 4-Hers and the Henry County Cooperative Extension Service is making a difference in the lives of those that are shut-in due to Covid-19 in our community.  This summer members of the Livestock Club and Rabbit/ Poultry Club took their animals to the Twin Oaks Assisted Living Facility.  The youth gathered outside in the interior courtyard and took their animals around to each resident’s window and shared stories with them about their animals.   The delight on the resident’s faces was heartwarming.  They not only enjoyed seeing the animals up close they also enjoyed interacting with the youth.

Henry County Homemakers clubs collected requested gift items for the Henry County Senior Citizens and the residents of the local nursing home.  Donations were brought to the extension lobby and placed around the Christmas tree. There were over 50 gift bags filled to the brim and ready for delivery. Homemakers wanted to make sure that there were enough gifts that each resident received one.

As cold weather set in the Henry County Cooperative Extension Service sponsored a Chautauqua speaker from the Kentucky Arts and Humanities Council for the Twin Oak residents to provide entertainment.  The performance of Madeline Breckinridge, Suffragette, had to take place virtually.  The office provided a large screen and projector at the assisted living home for residents so they could get the feel they were attending a movie.  Following the performance the audience was able to interact with the performer and ask questions.  It was a wonderful way of providing an art performance in a new way.

The Henry County Teen Club members created handmade Valentine’s for residents at Cedar Lake Lodge. This full-time living facility is for adults with special needs.  Teens crafted enough cards made that each resident received 2 cards. This club focuses on community service projects as well as developing leadership skills.

Meeting the needs of those that are at greatest risk of Covid-19 has become a focus throughout the Henry County Cooperative Extension program.  Giving back to so many of those who have supported their families, communities, and the extension program has been especially rewarding to all involved.