Holiday Cheer and Community Spirit at Armory Lane Senior Housing

The holiday season can be a wonderful time of year, but for many older adults, it can also bring feelings of isolation and loneliness. At Addison Housing Works, we believe that community and connection are just as important as safe, affordable housing. That’s why we’re always looking for ways to help residents build relationships and enjoy meaningful moments together, especially during the winter months.

This past December, Armory Lane Senior Housing was filled with holiday spirit thanks to two special events that brought laughter, music, and fellowship into the community room.

​A Visit from the Victory Kids Choir

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Early in the month, Armory Lane residents were treated to an unforgettable surprise: the Victory Kids Choir from Victory Baptist Church came to perform Christmas carols for the community.
The children were bused over from the church and arrived ready to sing a wonderful selection of classic holiday songs. Residents gathered to listen, smiling as the room filled with cheerful music and the sound of young voices singing familiar carols.
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But the best part? The residents couldn’t resist joining in the fun, they began requesting even more carols once the choir finished their planned set. That’s when the kids surprised everyone right back by knowing the lyrics and singing along to the requested songs without missing a beat.
The residents were truly overjoyed by the visit. The joy and energy the children brought was contagious, and by the end of the performance, many residents were asking church leadership if there might be a way to plan another visit in the future. It was the kind of moment that reminds us how powerful intergenerational connection can be, especially during the holidays.

"Christmas Isn't Just for Kids" Party Brings Laughter and Fun

Residents kicked off the celebration with a classic holiday favorite, a Yankee Swap gift exchange! Gifts were thoughtfully shopped by Lead SASH Coordinator, Diana Rule-Senzel, and everyone joined in as the game got underway. In true Yankee Swap style, participants could “steal” gifts from one another until the game ended, leading to plenty of playful banter, laughter, and fun throughout the room.

After the gift exchange, residents enjoyed a potluck meal they prepared together, filled with traditional holiday favorites like ham, turkey, and a variety of delicious side dishes. When the main meal was finished, there was an incredible spread of dessert treats—also prepared by residents—waiting to be enjoyed and shared.
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Throughout the entire celebration, the community room was full of fellowship, conversation, and connection. It was a perfect reminder that the holidays don’t have to be spent alone, and that even simple traditions, when shared, can create lasting memories.

Building Connection During the Holidays

At Addison Housing Works, we aim to support residents in building connections with one another year-round, but the holidays are an especially important time to do so. For some seniors, this season can feel quiet or lonely. Events like these help create opportunities for joy, companionship, and community spirit.

We’re grateful to everyone who helped make these December celebrations so meaningful. From the Victory Kids Choir and church leaders, to Diana and our Armory Lane residents who brought food, laughter, and holiday cheer to the table.

Armory Lane’s holiday season was one to remember and we look forward to creating even more moments of connection in the year ahead.