Courtyard Estates of Sullivan Introduces “Hugging Booth”

The Welsh family generously gifted Courtyard Estates of Sullivan with a “hugging booth.” Photo submitted by Petersen Healthcare.

For Immediate Release – December 17, 2020

Courtyard Estates of Sullivan has had to get creative this holiday season. The usual Christmas parties, family gatherings, caroling, have had to be modified for safety and not only has the staff come up with new ideas, the families have been creative as well, specifically one family that has made it possible for tenants to actually “hug” their loved one.

The Welsh family generously gifted Courtyard Estates of Sullivan with a “hugging booth.” They came up with the idea, along with the materials and the construction of the whole booth. It sits against an outer door that gives families safe entrance into a booth and it’s fit with plastic arms and gloves on both sides of the booth, for both the tenant and family member to hug.

Erika Piper, Director at Courtyard Estates of Sullivan commented, “It’s important, now more than ever that our tenants can see their loved one, and they went a step further and gave them the opportunity to actually touch or hug their loved one. It was such a heartwarming gift and all of the tenants are excited to try out the booth and get their much needed hugs and visits in.”

The booth was posted on Facebook and has had an overwhelming response from community and family anxious to get their visit scheduled.

“Courtyard Estates of Sullivan has been offering other avenues of communication, such as Zoom, Facetime, or Facebook, but there’s just something about seeing your family in person and even hug, they get that chance now, all thanks to the Welsh family,” commented Erika.

You can see the booth for yourself on Courtyard Estates of Sullivan’s Facebook page, and if you want to schedule a visit just call Erika at the community, but do it quick, spots are filling up!

Courtyard Estates of Sullivan is a Supportive Living community that serves those 65 and older. For more information on Courtyard Estates of Sullivan, visit courtyardestates.net.

Petersen Health Care, founded in 1974, owns and operates nearly 100 senior living communities throughout Illinois, Iowa and Missouri. The company employs over 5000 and is an active supporter of the communities in which they serve. The company is based out of Peoria, IL and is recognized as a leader in senior living communities.