Sometimes all you can do is lend a helping hand, which is exactly what a local nail and salon technician has decided to do to give back to local seniors.
Since she was a young child, Florina Hanson has helped out seniors and those who paved the way for her, because she thinks that is the right thing to do.
"Giving back to seniors has always been a very strong part of my core and my values. In any way I could help, I would help the elders," said Hanson.
Hanson owns Naked Nails, a mobile manicure and pedicure service that has started to offer free services to seniors over the age of 75.
The Cambridge nail tech had the idea to give back to the senior community after the pandemic highlighted gaps in services and negative treatment of seniors.
Having grown up in the Soviet Union-occupied Romania, Hanson notes family was one of the only things they had. This shaped her view and appreciation for her elders.
"I had a very close relationship with my mother-in-law and as she got older I noticed that she had a harder time to cut her nails," she said. "I did that for her, not because I had to but because I wanted to."
Having recently visited St. Luke's Place, a seniors' home in Hespeler, Hanson was able to connect with a 92-year-old woman and give her a free pedicure.
After posting her business cards on a community board at the home, Hanson is hoping to spread the word about her service and "treat seniors the way they deserve."
"The reason this lady called me is because her aunt is not as mobile as she used to be and she doesn't go out a lot and in the past, they used to take her once a month to a salon to get her hair cut, cut her nails, manicure and pedicures," said Hanson.
Just being able to put a smile on someone's face, because they know someone is looking out for them is payment enough, she added.
Hanson wants to see other people think about how they interact with the community and help support those in need, because you never know when you might need a helping hand.
"We're going to get there too. You and I are going to be there at some point in our lives and if more people actually would have this caring for the elders our community can be more harmonious or love or caring. It makes a huge change," she said. "It's the right thing to do."
Hanson is now looking for seniors to contact her and get their manicures and pedicures done. Her mobile services are also discounted for seniors under 75 years of age.
To find out more about Naked Nails and how to book an appointment, visit their social media.
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