NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Fifty seniors living in Pasco County received a nice surprise on their doorsteps: Supplies and goodies.

The tables at AHEPA 489 Senior Apartments in New Port Richey are still decorated with green, for a St. Patrick’s Day party that never happened due to coronavirus.

So volunteers finally brought the party to the residents, surprising them with bags of snacks and essentials.

“We’re all grateful. You can see the glitter in their eyes when they receive the goody packages,” said resident Ninette Hejka.

The community is income based, with seniors living on their own. It receives funds from HUD and is managed by AHEPA, a fraternal organization that provides affordable housing and other services across the country.

“It’s just something we thought we should do. Reach out and help and give what we could get,” said AHEPA member Tim Koufalis.

He, along with other staff and volunteers, delivered the bags to each resident.

AHEPA received some donations for this from longtime member Thomas Dobies, who owns Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Homes.

“We put this together to give the seniors something during this difficult time,” Dobies said.

Since many aren’t able to leave, these gifts go a long way to feeling like they’re not forgotten.

AHEPA hopes to continue to give some food and supplies on a regular basis during the pandemic.