Giving back for Christmas
Great Places embraced the holiday spirit with the Cheery Christmas campaign, supported by Social Value funding from suppliers Emanuel Whittaker, John Southworth, and Moffat & Riley, contributing a total of £7,500. This initiative aimed to bring joy and assistance to communities facing challenges during the festive season.
In 2023, the project delivered heartwarming moments, such as Christmas parties at our Next Step, Pomona Gardens, and Bluebell Court schemes. Customers shared a delightful three-course Christmas dinner at The North Euston Hotel in Fleetwood. Bluebell Court hosted entertaining activities, including bingo, karaoke, and a music quiz, complemented by a buffet and presents under the Christmas tree. Meanwhile, the Pat Midgley Community Centre in Sheffield provided elderly customers with a cheerful Christmas buffet, attended by local councillor Laura Moynahan and dedicated volunteers Zoe and Brenda.
The Cheery Christmas project extended its generosity by distributing gifts and hampers to customers and families. Pullman Close received special Christmas gifts, while The Harbour, Oliva Lodge, Lorna Lodge, Ellen Court, and Docherty Project schemes were gifted hampers courtesy of Audacious Church in Manchester City Centre.
A portion of the campaign funding was allocated to provide vouchers to individuals and families in need, offering support to vulnerable customers. The impact was huge, with recipients expressing relief from worries thanks to the help they received.
In total, the 2023 Cheery Christmas project helped 865 customers, this was through 151 vouchers given to families living in our communities totalling 316 customers and 20 Independence and Wellbeing schemes that applied for funding which supported 549 customers living in a number of our schemes.
Great Places takes immense pride in the positive outcomes achieved by the Cheery Christmas project, fostering community bonds and aiding those facing financial and emotional hardships. A heartfelt thank you is extended to suppliers Emanuel Whittaker, John Southworth, and Moffat & Riley for their invaluable contributions, making this impactful project possible.
