Originally published January 10, 2023 as part of a series by Special Contributor and local Philanthropist Ellen Andre focusing on local non-profits

This weeks’ highlighted non-profit is The Power Of Flowers Project based in Tewksbury, MA.  The Power of Flowers Project shares Hope and Happiness by providing a kind connection to seniors and veterans in care communities and those who receive meal delivery primarily in the Merrimack Valley of MA and Southern NH.  Some of which include Assisted Living Facilities, Elder Services Agencies, and Veterans Services.

Michelle Silveira/Executive Director, along with Lisa Fabin-Bett/Director of Administration tell us they have 100+ dedicated volunteers repurpose donated flowers into 400 individual bouquets per week and deliver these gifts to provide an unexpected moment of joy and improve the well-being of a vulnerable population.

Since their inception they have delivered over 142,000 bouquets!  In 2022 they made over 200 deliveries of more than 13,500 bouquets.

A few more details:

1)  They deliver 400 bouquets per week to lonely elderly and veterans living in care facilities and those who receive Meals on Wheels.

2)  They offer flower therapy workshops on-site at care facilities.  They provide all florals and other materials, and they bring a team of  volunteers to assist seniors in creating their own bouquets.  Residents look forward to these workshops and enjoy an hour of  focused attention and conversation with the volunteers.

3)  They offer Buds and Blooms Workshops in the community.  Hosts invite up to 20 people to their location to create bouquets.  Each participant creates two bouquets: one to keep and one to donate to a care facility.  They bring a team to the hosts’ location with supplies and their expertise to guide guests.  Each participant is asked to make a tax-deductible gift to the Power of Flowers Project.

Power of Flowers is always looking to add to our volunteer base and to expand their income stream.  One of their biggest challenges is spreading the word about their mission and the important work they do to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation among the senior community.  When people learn about them, they often ask, “How have I never heard about you?”.

There are several ways the community can help support and grow the program by donating, volunteering, hosting a Buds and Blooms event, telling others about the organization.  They also host several community events during the year including Spread the Joy Luncheon, a Spring Plant Sale and an Ice Cream Social.

If you’d like to learn more about the Power of Flowers Project online or contact Michelle at (978)226-8545.

There are many ways to donate which include online at Power of Flowers pofproject.org/contribute or by mail:

Power of Flowers
P.O.Box 294
Tewksbury, MA  01876

Thank you for your support!