Mitchell House residents, nurses shown support with drive-thru parade
GRASSY CREEK – Mitchell House residents and nurses received an outpouring of support Friday, May 29, during a drive-thru parade.
Because the facility cannot allow visitors due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the parade provided families and residents the opportunity to see one another while following all COVID-19-related guidelines.
“Our team here has done a phenomenal job in keeping residents and families connected in creative ways,” said Tennille Garofalo, executive director of Mitchell House. “This parade was a great example of that, and it really reinforced to our residents they are loved – not just by the staff here who care for them daily, but by the entire Spruce Pine community.”
With residents seated six feet apart outside of the building, family members, friends and local law enforcement drove past residents waving, honking car horns and shouting words of encouragement. Some people also decorated their vehicles with posters, balloons and stuffed animals.
“The parade was a beautiful showing of love and support, and we certainly need more of that in today’s world,” Garofalo said. “Our residents are just like family here at our community, and seeing them so happy and knowing they feel so loved just absolutely fills my heart with joy.”
Mitchell House Life Enrichment Coordinator Lisa Honeycutt worked closely with Spruce Pine Police Chief Bill Summerlin to organize the event.
Garofalo said the parade was a definite success and they hope to have another in the future.
“We are so grateful for the support of the community,” she said. “We know our residents as well as our staff had a great time interacting with friends and family at a safe distance.”