TEXARKANA, Texas - Residents at The Retreat at Kenwood have received pen pals from more than 90 cities, 30 states and two countries.
However, the staff would like to see pen pals from all 50 states and encourage everyone to spread the word on the project.
"They are writing their pen pals back so this is a legitimate project. The goal is to find a pen pal from the remaining states and we only have a few left," said Activities Director Leigh Ann Taylor.
Taylor said residents are thrilled and always excited to see what is in the mail.
"We have received care packages from Hawaii with treats and snacks in it and things from England and Scotland," Taylor said.
Every resident has a pen pal now and more are always welcome, Taylor said.
Staff started the project for residents shortly after the COVID-19 quarantine began.
"We started it as a way to make things easier for them during quarantine," Taylor said. "It has made them light up because they love getting anything in the mail. And they love having that contact with the outside world," Taylor said.
For a list of pen pals, email [email protected]. Pen pals can be local or from anywhere in the world.
Correspondence can be sent to: Retreat at Kenwood, Attn: Resident's name, 201 North Kenwood Road, Texarkana, Texas 75501.