More than 200 older residents enjoyed Our Big Christmas Day Lunch in Hammersmith thanks to donations from local residents and businesses.
The guests – who would otherwise have celebrated alone – joined us at the Novotel London West hotel for a two-course festive feast, complete with live music from Vivid Jazz and free transport.
The entire day was made possible thanks to £30,000 in donations from local residents and businesses such as Chelsea FC and Queens Park Rangers FC.
Christmas gifts
Our guests were given a gift bag and a personalised Christmas card, written and decorated by pupils from John Betts and Melcombe primary schools, as well as community groups at local libraries.
Guests were also given a free raffle ticket. Prizes included chocolates donated from Hotel Chocolat, mince pies from Melrose and Morgan, and restaurant vouchers from Patri. First prize was dinner and an overnight stay for two at the Novotel.
Generous donations
All donations were raised by local charity, H&F Giving. Companies who donated included local football teams Chelsea (£5,000) and QPR (£1,000).
The Hammersmith BID donated £500, local gyms operator GLL contributed £1,000, while local anti-poverty charity DEBK gave £6,000 towards the lunch. In addition, The Earls Court Development Company gave £5,000.
"It was great to help with such a festive celebration for those that would otherwise spend Christmas Day alone," said Flora Taylor, Executive Director of H&F Giving. "The appeal really resonated with local companies, trusts and residents and their support has been incredibly generous."
Helping hands
A total of 131 volunteers helped, including 33 residents who gave their time on Christmas Day. Volunteers also packed each guest's gift bag and assisted with driving everyone to and from the hotel.
"The best part of the packing was seeing the little kids' Christmas cards today," said volunteer Delfina, 23, from Hammersmith.
"They've come from a couple of local schools and have been made for the residents who need a little bit more Christmas love this year. They're sweet, each card is different and personalised."
You can check out pictures from the day here in our Big H&F Christmas Day Lunch Flickr gallery.
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