Caregiver Appreciation-
You Can Express Support Through the Employee Christmas Fund

Saint Simeon's is very fortunate to serve residents and families who, during the holiday season, wish to show their appreciation for, what we hope, has been outstanding care throughout the year. In many cases, gifts of cash or other items were offered to individual employees as a “thank you.” We appreciate the expression of gratitude represented by the offers. But, in order to help assure that each resident receives the same level of compassionate care, employees are not allowed to accept gifts or gratuities. In addition, just in the past few years, the State of Oklahoma created a law that also prohibits employees of nursing homes from accepting gifts or gratuities from residents and families. We are included under that law.

Because we do understand the zeal residents and families have to express their appreciation for individual employee efforts, the Saint Simeon's Employee Christmas Fund represents an opportunity for donations without compromising the employee violating Saint Simeon's policy or state regulations. Donations to the Employee Christmas Fund are collected throughout the year, divided equally by the number of employees, and then presented to each employee as a cash bonus. Even employees whose duties do not include opportunities for direct resident interaction or care receive the bonus. Although many staff members do not provide direct resident care, they play a very important role in helping make Saint Simeon's a loving home. The cash bonuses are distributed to the employees during the week of Christmas. Last year generous gifts allowed each employee to receive a bonus of $240.

If you would like to make a donation to the Employee Christmas Fund, please place your contribution in one of the “Employee Gift Boxes” located in each area of the home or send a check to “Saint Simeon's Employee Holiday Fund”, 3701 N. Cincinnati, Tulsa, OK 74106. The gift boxes will be placed throughout the Home as well as Adult Day Services starting on Sunday, November 30th and will remain available through Monday, December 22nd.

Gift Ideas for Residents If you are stumped about what you can give as a gift this year, Buck & Buck Designs offers a wide variety of clothing apparel and footwear items designed for persons with special needs. You can get a copy of the Buck & Buck catalogue from Life Enrichment or visit their on-line store.

“Party Central” in December! Be sure to visit the December activity calendar. Almost every day features outstanding singing and musical groups-ranging from gospel choirs to barbershop quartets to country bands to opera. Check out the Tree Trimming parties on December 2nd, December 4th and 5th (during cocktail hour!); the Residents' Christmas Party on the 14th; and the New Year's Dance on December 31st. These are a few of the highlights. Come join the fun!