By Naomi McBain
Hope and Befriended, two local charities, are looking forward to hosting their third Christmas Day Community Lunch in Hurstpierpoint this year. Both charities believe in encouraging everyone in their community to become better connected and supportive of each other.
For many, Christmas isn’t a fun-filled, family time, as presented so often in adverts. Both charities are meeting people for whom this perfect image leaves more than a slight dread of the festivities. Perhaps it’s the intense sense of being on their own, the increased financial stress or even the heightened awareness of difficult memories.
Whatever the reason people have for joining in, we work at making this event welcoming and an opportunity for people to be part of a day that’s full of others who care. We are so grateful for the support from local businesses with generous offers of food and drink, as well as the village charity shop providing a grant to subsidise the initial event two years ago.
Our charities’ work goes on through the year too, so, quite possibly, by bringing an elderly neighbour or encouraging a family who is having a difficult time to join in the fun, they may well find an ongoing community connection to help them face what the New Year brings with more hope, joy and peace.
A father, who came last year with his son, said: “It was very welcoming and had family friendly games. The entertainment was fantastic. It made a world of difference being around people, rather than spending it alone.” The wonderful thing is that they have met up during the year with the friends made around their table. They are looking forward to joining in again this year.
The event starts as people arrive from 12.30pm to spend the next few hours enjoying plenty of chatter, fun and games, good food and musical entertainment. We listen to the Queen’s Speech and round the afternoon off with a few festive carols, before people head home at around 4pm.
If people are interested in being a part of this year’s Christmas Day Lunch, they should email admin AT befriended.org