SPRINGFIELD, IL- With Valentine’s Day approaching, State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) partnered with State Representative Jason R. Bunting (R-Emington) and State Representative Dennis Tipsword (R-Metamora) to deliver over 1500 Valentine’s Day cards to seniors across the district, reminding them they are valued and remembered.
“Valentine’s Day is about showing people they matter,” Balkema said. “It was a privilege to meet so many wonderful seniors, hear their stories, and see the smiles these cards brought to their faces. Our seniors built the communities we call home, and they deserve to feel appreciated not just on holidays, but every day.”
Schools, churches and residents from across the district answered the legislators’ call to create heartfelt notes for local seniors. These small gestures made a big impact as Sen. Balkema, Rep. Bunting, and Rep. Tipsword spent time visiting with residents and staff while helping distribute over 1500 Valentine’s cards across the 53rd Senate District.
Rep. Jason R. Bunting commented, “I was truly moved by the number of people from our district – especially the students and school groups – who joined in sharing love and appreciation by making Valentines for our seniors. It was really great to see the joy these Valentines brought to them. Thank you to everyone who participated!”
Rep. Bunting and Rep. Tipsword joined Senator Balkema in thanking the many community members whose participation turned a simple idea into a meaningful day for local seniors.
“It is always wonderful to connect with our seniors and let them know how much they mean to everyone in their local communities,” stated Rep. Tipsword. “We must never take opportunities like these for granted, and I am grateful to everyone who participated and took the time to send in these heartfelt cards.”