SANDPOINT — What started as a way to bless Sandpoint seniors with a valentine during the COVID-19 pandemic has turned into an annual county-wide activity that impacts thousands.

Last year, over 2,000 cards were distributed to seniors through a program started by Donna Price.

“This started when COVID hit our community and many seniors could not leave nor have visitors,” she said. “I have continued it because many participants enjoy doing this and for some past recipients, it was their very last Valentine's Day.  Knowing that smiles were brought to their hearts and faces is what keeps me doing this.”

Price has dropped off heart-shaped baskets at over 20 locations across the county for community members to leave their cards. The valentines, once collected, will be distributed to four senior centers, three senior apartment complexes, three in-home health care programs and Bonner Health hospital patients and their hospice program. 

“There were also several businesses that passed out the cards to their patrons on Valentine’s Day last year,” Price said.

Cards can be handmade or store-bought. They can be signed personally or with something like, “from someone who cares.” Price asks that envelopes are not sealed. Cards will be collected by noon on Feb. 9 and distributed Feb. 12. 

Drop-off locations in Sagle include Buckin’ Beans, Fly Creek Animal Clinic, Pierce Auto and Maker’s Long Acres. In Sandpoint, cards can be dropped at Finan McDonald, Kokanee Coffee, Monarch Mountain Coffee, Evans Brothers Coffee, Sanctuary Seconds, Panhandle Cone & Coffee, Sharon’s Hallmark, Creations for Sandpoint Inc., Miller’s, Super Drug, Savory Neighborhood Grill and Missi Balison Fitness.  Ponderay locations include Hoot Owl Cafe, Farmhouse Kitchen BBQ, and Breakfast Cantina. Infinity Cafe in Priest River will be collecting cards until Feb. 5.

Sandpoint High School, Sagle Elementary, elementary schools in Sandpoint and Clark Fork, Panhandle Special Needs Inc., and numerous daycare centers are also assisting.