MOREHEAD, Ky. -- While everyone is staying home during these times, it is especially difficult for senior citizens in care facilities who truly need to be 100 percent isolated to protect their own health.

Many rely on visits from family members, but that has been put on hold. That's why Morehead State Athletics teamed up to provide some inspiration to senior citizens. More than 100 student-athletes, coaches, families and staff wrote messages of hope, took selfies with them, and they were sent to local senior care facilities so residents can enjoy and know they are being thought of every day.

The project was spearheaded by assistant volleyball and beach volleyball coach Sarah Martin.

"Because of the COVID-19 virus, residents in these care centers are not allowed visitors, so they can start to feel lonely," said Martin. "We hope these messages provide them with comfort in knowing they are cared about."

More than 200 messages were sent to three local centers - LifeCare Center, Northfork Senior Living and Ridgeway Nursing and Rehab. Many of the messages were also individually posted to MSU's social media channels.