When five-year-old Mia Rodriguez heard Baptistcare Gracehaven Residential Care in Rockingham could no longer have visitors due to Covid-19 protection measures, her heart went out to the residents.
The Port Kennedy Primary School student who has Down’s Syndrome has been visiting the aged care facility for two years and wanted to do something to keep the spirits of those that live there high.
So, she spent hours painstakingly drawing 98 individual rainbows – one for each resident – accompanied by an uplifting, hand-written message.
Rainbows have become a symbol of hope during the global Covid-19 pandemic, with children around the world displaying pictures of rainbows in their windows to spread happiness.
Mia’s beautiful gesture let the Baptistcare Gracehaven seniors know she was thinking of them even though she is currently unable to visit them in person and brought a smile to the face of every recipient.
It was also a fun and creative project for the Year 1 student who is now home schooling due to Covid-19.
Baptistcare CEO, Russell Bricknell, said he has been inspired by children like Mia who have been reaching out to residents across Baptistcare’s facilities.
“We have many intergenerational and volunteer activities where children of all ages connect with elderly residents and genuine friendships are formed,” he said.
“While there’s no doubt residents are currently missing the time they normally get to spend with their young visitors, I know the children too miss the special interactions.
“Mia’s thoughtful rainbow messages have brought a huge amount of joy to her friends at Gracehaven.”
Baptistcare Gracehaven residents and staff are regular supporters of Mia’s fundraising efforts for Telethon and Down’s Syndrome Australia.
