Spending Christmas alone is a daunting but very real prospect for some.

This year you could volunteer and help make it special for others less fortunate.

Annual event

Merstham Community Development worker, Tracey Burrows, is working with a local group to provide Christmas Day lunch for those who might be alone or find Christmas stressful.

"This is our fourth year." says Tracey. “We need volunteers willing to help bring a little cheer to those who may not be able to afford a Christmas meal, or those that might just need some company at this special time."

Guests include young families, older people, people with mental health needs and those who are lonely or isolated.

Table hosts, drivers and dish washers

Volunteer table hosts sit and eat with guests (which is the traditional turkey lunch with all the trimmings of course) to help encourage conversation and make people feel welcome. “We are also looking for volunteer drivers, people to clear away, people to wash up ... and Father Christmas!" says Tracey.

Donations and gifts

In addition to recruiting volunteers, Tracey is collecting donations, either financial - to help with funding - or gifts to be distributed on the day.

“Any amount, however small will help”, says Tracey.  “Also when you are Christmas shopping, buying an extra small gift to donate would be fantastic."

"Last year," continues Tracey, "on one table there were three young children whose mum suffers with mental health issues and rarely leaves the house. The presents they were given at the table were the only ones they received - they were just so pleased to get something. It was quite heart rending - but made it all the more worthwhile."

Together at Christmas website

Visit the Together at Christmas website to read more about this project and ways you can help make it successful.

Contact

To volunteer or to donate gifts or money please contact:

Tracey Burrows on 01737 645217
Community Development Officer