Cute little “love bugs” and adorable handmade cards warmed plenty of hearts at Mareeba Aged Care in Maclean on Valentine’s Day.

Local woman Kylie Williams organised a community fundraiser through her Scentsy business, where people could “Adopt a Love Bug” for $20 to gift to Mareeba residents.

“Not being able to see loved ones during the Covid restrictions was very difficult for a lot of residents, so I wanted them to know they were being thought of, and that they matter,” she said.

“The icing on the cake came when Cubby House for Kids saw that I was doing a fundraiser and asked if their kids could do some craft for the residents. They made cards for every single love bug – it was very cute, and very special.”

Mareeba’s Facility Manager, Rachel Bennett, said they appreciated the heartfelt gesture from Kylie and Cubby House for Kids.

“We had 100 love bugs and cards to give to each resident. It bought smiles to everyone’s faces and was just amazing,” she said.

“It was a perfect combination of love and kindness on Valentine’s Day, and a wonderful way for our residents to connect with our community.”

Leading up to Valentine’s Day, Mareeba residents kept busy with craft projects to decorate the facility. They created red and silver glitter hearts for table centrepieces and arrangements, and red and white heart bunting, which made the place look amazing.