Teaching kids about kindness and generosity can start with simple, hands-on activities that benefit the community. This February, families in the Roanoke Valley have two wonderful opportunities to get involved: Soup for Seniors, a program run by the Local Office on Aging, and Valentines for Vets at the Belmont Branch Library. Both initiatives offer meaningful ways to teach children the joy of giving while supporting members of our local community.
Soup for Seniors
The Local Office on Aging is hosting Soup for Seniors from January 29 to February 5, collecting non-perishable food to support local senior citizens in need and provide them with a warm meal on a cold day. Seniors often face food insecurity, and this program helps provide essentials to brighten their lives during the colder months.
How Kids Can Help:
Take your little ones on a shopping trip to pick out items from the most needed list:
- Soup
- Peanut Butter
- Canned Meats
- Canned Fruit
- Canned Vegetables
- Crackers
- Oatmeal
- Boost or Ensure
Remind them to choose low-salt, nutritious items and to avoid glass containers. Together, check expiration dates to ensure donations are fresh and ready to use. You can even add a personal touch by having your kids draw cheerful pictures or write notes to include with the donations.
Drop-Off Locations:
Donations can be dropped off at the following Roanoke County library locations:
- Bent Mountain Library: 10148 Tinsley Ln, Bent Mountain
- Glenvar Library: 3917 Daugherty Rd, Salem
- South County Library: 6303 Merriman Rd, Roanoke
- Vinton Library: 300 S Pollard St, Vinton
- Salem Library: 28 E Main St, Salem
Valentines for Vets
From February 1 to February 6, the Belmont Branch Library in Roanoke City is hosting Valentines for Vets, an initiative to create heartfelt cards for local veterans at the VA Center. This is a fantastic opportunity for kids to express creativity and gratitude to those who have served our country.
How to Get Involved:
Visit the Belmont Branch Library during the event dates to make or drop off valentines. Kids can bring craft supplies like construction paper, markers, and stickers—or use the materials provided at the library—to design meaningful cards. Encourage them to write simple messages of thanks, such as, “Thank you for your service!” or “You are our hero!”
** PLEASE NOTE: Cards with scripture, confetti, or those with strong smells or perfume are not allowed to be handed out.
Why Giving Back Matters for Kids
Participating in community-focused activities like these helps kids:
- Build empathy: Kids learn to understand and care for others in need.
- Gain confidence: They see how even small actions can make a big impact.
- Foster gratitude: Helping others reminds children to appreciate what they have.
Turn these opportunities into cherished family moments. For Soup for Seniors, let everyone choose an item from the donation list and drop it off together. For Valentines for Vets, gather around the kitchen table and create cards as a family. Share stories about the elderly and veterans in your life to help your kids connect to the cause.
By participating in Soup for Seniors or Valentines for Vets, your family can help make a real difference while instilling valuable life lessons in your children. Together, you’ll spread love and joy throughout the community.
For more information on Soup for Seniors, contact the Local Office on Aging. To learn more about Valentines for Vets, visit the Belmont Branch Library or call (540) 853-2640 with questions. Let’s make this February one of kindness and giving by showing love to our local community.
