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Last week, the Suffolk Sheriff’s Department celebrated nursing home moms ahead of the Mother’s Day weekend, with a bit of help from Elephant’s Fork Elementary School students.

After picking up cards from the students on Wednesday, May 8, the Sheriff’s Office stopped by Maryview Nursing Center, Lake Prince Woods, Autumn Care, and Concordia Nursing & Rehabilitation on both Thursday, May 9, and Friday, May 10, to deliver and show appreciation to Suffolk mothers in residence.

Autumn Care Director of Life Enrichment Tameika Cross discussed having the Sheriff’s Department visit to celebrate the holiday.  

“We’re always excited to have the Suffolk Sheriff’s Department here with us, they’re part of our extended family,” Cross said. “Our residents look forward to having them here, just to spend time with and to spread joy every holiday.”

Noting both the joy and sorrow that comes with Mother’s Day, Chief Deputy Maj. David Miles talked about its significance, saying it “cannot be easily put into words.”

 “Many are able to celebrate and show love to their mothers either in person or by phone. Unfortunately, there are so many that no longer have that opportunity,” Miles said. “It is a privilege for us to take time out of our day to reach out to those in the nursing homes that are not able to be with their loved ones on this holiday.”

 Miles reflected on seeing the moms’ faces during their nursing home visits.

“Their smiling faces are what makes it all worth it,” he said. “It really hit home this time when one resident said that no one thought of her this year, and she wanted to thank us for remembering her.”

  With how much the kids put into their cards, Miles says he wished they were able to see the faces of the moms who received them. He also shared a message for the mothers and their families for the holiday.

  “Mother’s Day, like other holidays, is both a joyous and difficult time for many,” Miles said. “We thank the students at Elephant’s Fork Elementary School, the staff at the nursing homes, and the families of the residents for allowing us to have the opportunity to show love and support to the residents again this year.”