Cozy and warm beneath her "Peanuts" blanket on a snowy Friday morning, Connie Mahoney lit up when Santa Claus walked into her room at Ivy Court in Coeur d'Alene.

"Merry Christmas, dear," Santa said, leaning in to squeeze her hand.

"It's wonderful, wonderful," Mahoney said, a smile from ear to ear. "It's heartwarming, heartwarming. Good for the heart. Oh, my goodness."

Santa, played by local Navy veteran Dave Sheldon, and a crew of Silver Angels for the Elderly volunteers in feathered halos brought gifts, Christmas cookies and festive joy to about 70 Ivy Court residents as part of the nonprofit's mission to remember those who are in care facilities or otherwise isolated this holiday season.

Pam Ader, Ivy Court life enrichment director, escorted the Angels through the building as they popped into different rooms and shared moments of kindness with the residents.

"It is wonderful they were able to do this and to bring smiles to our residents at Ivy Court," Ader said.

Later, the Angels landed across town to spread Christmas cheer to those convalescing at Lacrosse Health and Rehabilitation Center.

"The Angels have put this all together, so credit to them," Silver Angels founder Diane Zell said. "Of course, Santa is our favorite and he always brings joy to everyone."

Founded in 2015, Silver Angels for the Elderly is devoted to serving residents in local care facilities. Its members throw birthday parties, conduct holiday visits and spend time with residents to let them know they're loved and not forgotten.

Info: silverangelsfortheelderly.com