MONROE — Monroe Health Services had no idea that one Facebook post could have such an impact on their residents for Valentine’s Day. With the post reaching nearly 70,000 people, Monroe has been overwhelmed with Valentines pouring in from 12 states.

Published on Feb. 1, 2022, Monroe shared photos of each resident holding up a sign with their name asking for a Valentine. In two days, the post had reached nearly 40,000 people, and as of Feb. 14, that number jumped to nearly 70,000 with 575 shares, 405 comments, and 1,936 reactions. Valentine gifts, including cards, flowers, and candy, have hailed from the following states: Wisconsin, New Jersey, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Texas, North Carolina, Oregon, Missouri, Alaska, Washington, D.C., and Iowa. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers even took the time to send notes to the residents! 

“I just personally want to thank your staff for the opportunity to send your residents Valentine cards,” said Debra, whose daughter made Valentines for the residents. “My daughter was bummed because the school wouldn’t let (the students) bring Valentines to school so this was our opportunity when we saw this on Facebook and we live all the way in Iowa.” 

Monroe Health Activity Director Melody Whipple said that the post office has been amazed at the number of deliveries they are making to the center. 

“Our residents can’t believe this many cards are coming to their rooms all week long,” she said. “It is truly a gift of kindness.”