Those out Christmas shopping this year have the opportunity to help a senior citizen in need.

Home Instead Senior Care, located in Mason, is sponsoring its sixth annual “Be a Santa to a Senior” program. Sue Shroder, community service representative, said there are five locations across Butler, Warren and north Hamilton counties for residents to select an ornament from a “Be a Santa to a Senior” tree that lists the first name of a senior in need, along with gift requests.

Now through Dec. 10, shoppers can find the ornaments at the following locations: East Butler County Family YMCA, 6645 Morris Road, Fairfield Twp.; Ideal Fitness, 4747 Tylersville Road, West Chester Twp.; Yost Pharmacy, 120 Main St., Mason; Home Instead Senior Care, 6860 Tylersville Road, Suite One, Mason; and Landen Jazzercise, 3213 W. U.S. Route 22, Loveland.

“Seniors are so often overlooked at this time of year as many people focus on the children, however the needs of our seniors are still ever-present,” said Debbie Ronson, general manager of Home Instead Senior Care. “But it’s not just about the gifts. The program is also designed to provide interaction for seniors who are unlikely to have guests during the holidays.”

Shroder said the program will be able to provide 250 gifts to 125 area senior citizens. Seniors were selected by participating non-profit organizations and extended care facilities.

Those interested in participating should purchase the gifts and return them unwrapped, with the ornament, to the tree location. Volunteers will help wrap and distribute the gifts Dec. 18-19. Anyone interested in volunteering, can call 513-701-3141 or visit www.beasantatoasenior.com.