This Valentine’s Day, 200 roses were delivered to senior citizens in Gustine and Newman, bringing joy and heartfelt moments to many. The Gustine Traveling Library and Gustine Downtown Business Association proudly joined AARP’s Cupid Crew to spread love and happiness to our senior community.
The event, led by Gustine Traveling Library owner and GDBA President Zachery Ramos, alongside GDBA Board Member James Rubio and Gustine City Councilman Mark Melville, made stops at Green Acres in Gustine and the San Luis Care Center in Newman to personally hand out roses to residents. As seniors received their Valentine’s Day surprise, many expressed gratitude for the unexpected act of kindness.
“This made my whole day,” said Cheryle Thomas, holding her rose close. “It’s been a long time since I’ve received flowers, and it feels wonderful to be remembered.”
Kim French, a guest at Green Acres, with a tear in her eye, said, “My husband used to always bring me flowers on Valentine’s Day, and I miss that. This rose brought back such sweet memories. Thank you for thinking of us.”
Merri Vieira, Green Acres resident, shared, “Every Valentine’s Day my father made sure I had flowers. Thank you for making my day.”
In Newman Sarah Castro added, “It’s little things like this that remind us we are still thought of and cared for. Thank you for bringing us some Valentine’s love.”
In addition to delivering roses at the senior centers, extra roses were handed out to seniors at the Newman Shopping Plaza, ensuring even more members of the community felt the warmth of Valentine’s Day. Isaac Hernandez who received a rose outside the plaza shared, “I was just out picking up a few groceries, and this was such a nice surprise. It really made me feel special.”
Councilman Mark Melville shared his thoughts on the event, emphasizing the importance of community connection:
“It was an honor to be part of such a meaningful effort to bring joy to our senior citizens. Seeing their smiles and hearing their stories reminded me how small gestures can make a big impact. Events like this show the heart of our community coming together to support and uplift one another. I’m grateful to the Gustine Traveling Library, the Gustine Downtown Business Association, and AARP for making this possible and for always finding ways to give back.”
