The Story Behind Action For The Lonely
Action For The Lonely began as a heartfelt idea from our founder and director, Linda Gillick, who felt a deep calling from God to share His love in tangible ways.
Launched during the holiday season over 20 years ago, Linda envisioned bringing joy, comfort, and connection to home care residents through thoughtful decorations and heartfelt words of encouragement.
What started as a seasonal outreach (The Little Trees Project) has since grown into a year-round mission, rooted in Linda’s obedience to God’s prompting and her unwavering desire to make His love known.
Here’s where it all began…
From One Little Tree to a Mission of Joy: How Edith’s Christmas Tradition Sparked a Year-Round Ministry
By Linda Gillick
Over 20 years ago, I placed my first “little tree” for Edith, a dear friend in her 80s.
As a young nurse engaged to be married, Edith was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. She broke off her engagement and never married, dedicating herself instead to a life of faith.
Frail and weighing no more than 70 pounds, Edith had a loving nature and a heart for God. I visited her weekly, bringing lunch and encouraging her to pray for others as our “prayer warrior.”
One Christmas, I surprised her with a little Christmas tree and ornaments for her living room. When her sister Lois saw it, she asked for one too, and it became a tradition.
After Edith passed, Lois always wanted Edith’s tree, cherishing it as a connection to her sister.
Even in her final year at a nursing home, the tree brought so much joy to Lois and those around her.
Since then, l’ve placed trees for other nursing home residents, sometimes with the help of my children, grandchildren, or youth groups.
Last year, feeling overwhelmed by how many more people needed joy, I prayed for guidance. God reminded me this mission was bigger than me.
A few months later, I met a missionary who introduced me to The Cause, an organization that supports ministry efforts. With help from The Cause, I’ve been able to expand this mission from the annual Little Trees Project to a year-round ministry called Action For The Lonely, giving me many more opportunities to serve those God has placed on my heart.
