Families donate money to Vandalia nursing home staff to say ‘thanks’

Every employee in a Vandalia nursing home got to take home some special ‘thanks’ from residents’ families.

Staff members at Hearth & Home of Vandalia have had to face the challenges of keeping their nursing home residents safe during a pandemic.

“It’s been terrible, honestly. I’m not sure if you’re not in healthcare if you really understand what everyone has gone through,” residence manager Donna McAdams said.

She knows those close to the people her team cares for have also had it rough.

“It’s very hard on the families that they can’t see their loved one,” McAdams said.

After this difficult year, she said two families surprised her staff with donations to say ‘thanks.’

“It just means a lot,” McAdams said.

One was anonymous, $100 to each employee, $3,500 in total. It was in appreciation for all McAdams’ staff has done to take care of someone’s mother.

“You know you’re doing a great job and it’s nice to know that the families that haven’t been able to come in and visit that they really do feel like you’re doing a great job, and it just meant a lot to everybody, just a validation,” McAdams said.

She said it was encouraging after this year to know the employees’ work is making a difference.

“Shows them that they are valued and appreciated and the sacrifices they’ve made this past year are very appreciated, keeping their loved ones safe here in our home,” McAdams said.

Cox Media Group