Labette Community College Psychology Club Delivers Holiday Cheer to Parsons Presbyterian Manor Residents

Parsons, KS — The Labette Community College (LCC) Psychology Club continued a growing campus tradition this past Thursday, December 4, by delivering nearly 100 pairs of cozy socks and handmade holiday cards to the 47 residents of Parsons Presbyterian Manor.

The project, now in its second year, began as a classroom discussion in a Developmental Psychology course about mental health concerns commonly experienced by older adults, particularly during the holiday season. What started as an academic conversation soon grew into a campus-wide act of service, led by psychology professor and club advisor DeAnna Huffman.

“This tradition started last year when my class was studying late adulthood and discussing the prevalence of mental health challenges among the elderly during the holidays,” Huffman said. “We wanted to do something that would brighten someone’s day. Delivering handmade cards and later adding fuzzy socks felt like a simple but meaningful way to spread holiday cheer. Our campus came together in such an incredible way again this year, and it was rewarding for everyone involved.”

This year’s collection included almost 100 pairs of socks, donated from all across campus. A significant portion of the donations came from LCC’s Respiratory Care Club, which contributed 47 pairs, enough to ensure every Presbyterian Manor resident received a gift. Additional support came from LCC’s FBLA organization, individual employees, and students.

Members of the Psychology Club hand-delivered the socks and cards during their visit on December 4, spending time with residents and helping spread warmth, both literally and figuratively, through conversation and thoughtful holiday gestures.

Huffman added that the experience was meaningful on multiple levels. “Our students were touched by the generosity of the campus community, and the residents welcomed us with such kindness. It’s a wonderful example of how a small idea can grow into something that brings joy to so many people.”

The Psychology Club plans to continue the tradition in future years, with hopes of expanding the project and further strengthening connections between LCC students and the local senior community.