The special bond between an elementary school and a senior living community

FRISCO, Tx. - For the past three years, the seniors at Mustang Creek Estates assisted living center have been spending time with students at the Polly Tadlock Elementary School in Frisco, Texas. Recently the senior living community donated two planters for the school’s Garden of Gratitude, and they’re planting the seeds of a friendship that transcends generations. 

They’ll continue to interact all year long -- writing letters, sharing stories, and being there for one another. The students will also make a special trip to the community to sing Christmas carols. 

Senior Lupe Shirakawa told FOX 4 “Because we, because they need us and we need them. You know? It’ll never end. It’ll just get better. You know? All we have to do is smile, and they’re right there.” 

The energy and optimism of the students helps lift the spirits of the seniors, and in return the kids receive wisdom they’ll never learn in school. 

“It was good. It was nice. It’s nice to interact with the kids,” said senior Donna Butler. 

Come spring, the seniors will be back to help plant new flowers. And just like the flowers, their friendship will continue to grow. 

“It is really fun. And it was like a really cool experience to like see how their daily lives are every day, and just have fun with them,” said 9-year-old Kate McLellan.

Watch the video to see this special bond in full bloom.