Local pensioners are donating their fuel allowance to help us throw our Big H&F Christmas Day Lunch for older residents who would otherwise celebrate alone.
Donating to H&F Giving's fund alongside other residents and H&F businesses, they have raised more than £26,000 and new pledges are still coming in.
We don't need our Winter Fuel Allowance," explained local resident Joanna, who donated her allowance. "And one small step we can take to help address the imbalance in our local community is to pass it on to those that need it more than us."
The money raised will fund a full Christmas dinner for up to 500 residents, a gift bag for each guest, transport to and from the venue, and entertainment on the day.
There's still time to donate and we've almost reached our £40,000 goal. If you would like to give towards the day, or want to gift your Winter Fuel Allowance, visit H&F Giving's website.
Every donation helps
No matter how much you give, every donation will help make Christmas Day special. Here's how your donation will make a difference:
- £1,000 will pay for a table of up to 10 older people living alone to enjoy lunch together, including pick up and drop off before and after the celebration.
- £70 will pay for one resident's full Christmas package, including lunch and a gift back to take home.
- £60 will pay for transport to and from the Novotel Hotel on Christmas Day
- £30 will pay for one resident's two course Christmas dinner.
- £10 could add some sweetness to the day by covering an after-dinner mince pie, festive biscuits or hot drink.
Cllr Ben Coleman, Deputy Leader of H&F said:
Our Christmas lunch offers good food, company, gifts, and lots of laughs to many older residents who would otherwise be spending 25 December on their own.
"Please consider making a donation big or small to ensure a great day for all our guests."
