Valentine’s Day card campaign includes soldiers, elderly

ASHLAND, Ky. — U.S. soldiers serving abroad and residents of local nursing homes will receive handmade Valentine’s Day cards again this year, thanks to those who participate in the seventh annual Hands that Touch a Heart campaign.

Hands That Touch a Heart is Boyd County Public Library District’s annual campaign to deliver personal, handmade cards to those who might not otherwise receive one.

“It’s a way to make sure that as many people as possible get remembered on that day,” said Amanda Gilmore, community relations coordinator for the library. “And it teaches children the importance of giving to someone, especially something they make themselves.”

Children trace their hands on the card, and then decorate it any way they wish, and add their name and a personalized message. All ages are welcome to make a card, with parents assisting the very young.

Supplies will be on hand at all three library branches – Ashland, Catlettsburg and Summit from Monday, Jan. 3, through Monday, Feb. 7. Outside groups are also encouraged to participate, and the Library will provide card templates.

Children have made between 600 and 800 cards in the past four years.

Teachers or leaders of groups that want to participate should contact Amanda Clark at aclark@thebookplace.org or 606.329.0518, ext. 1140.