The city of Ceres Recreation Department is seeking the public’s help in brightening the Christmas of seniors with its “Secret Santa for Seniors” program.

The program is specifically for seniors in the Ceres community could benefit from gift givers during the holiday. The public can help by donating gender neutral gift items, such as gift cards, gift baskets, arts and crafts kits, puzzles and comfort items. Gifts may be brought to the Ceres Community Center, 2701 Fourth Street, by Dec. 13.Recreation staff members will wrap the gifts and hand them out to seniors during the free lunch program for seniors. The gifts will be presented the week before Christmas.

For more information, call 209-538-5648.

The senior lunch program is for those 60 or older offered at the Community Center on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Meals are prepared by the United Samaritans Foundation in Turlock and transported to Ceres. The menu varies but includes such items like chef salads, turkey burgers, sandwiches, meatloaf and mashed potatoes and soups.

There is no cost for the meal but a suggested donation of $3 per person is asked. No eligible participant will be denied due to inability to pay. Guests under 60 are welcome but must pay the full cost of the meal which is $6.

Reservations at the Senior Information line at (209) 480-4508 are encouraged at least the day before to ensure an adequate number of meals will be available. 

The lunch center opens at 11 a.m. for coffee and social time with lunch served from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Seniors are also welcome to play cards and watch TV in the Senior Lounge and participate in enrichment programs.