Delivering a little Christmas kindness in Hertfordshire
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Over 3,000 older people living in Hertfordshire will be treated to some Christmas kindness this year as partners come together to deliver a festive gift.
Hertfordshire County Council have worked with local charity, Small Acts of Kindness, and HertsHelp- the countywide help and advice service - to source presents, pack and wrap gift boxes which will be hand delivered by volunteers to older people across the county.
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The project has welcomed over 140 volunteers who have been busy packing and wrapping the boxes following the latest COVID-19 secure guidance to keep them and the people they are supporting safe.
As well as carefully selected treats, each box includes information about HertsHelp so that residents can get in touch if they need support, information or just someone to talk to should they feel isolated through the festive period.
Richard Roberts, executive member for adult care and health at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “The Christmas Kindness project is a fantastic initiative and this year it’s more important than ever to look out for one another.
"The coronavirus pandemic has meant that this Christmas will be very different for many older people, and after months of shielding or isolating, many face the prospect of little or no contact with family and friends.
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“We’re delighted to have been able to fund so many of these gift boxes and I’d like to say a special thank you to the volunteers who have given their time to support the project.
"As well as spreading some happiness along the way, it’s vital that residents know that anyone in need of a little extra help can get in touch with HertsHelp.”
Lynne Misner CEO, Small Acts of Kindness said: "Our aim is to reduce loneliness and isolation for older people and to connect communities with kindness.
"It is an absolute pleasure to partner with Hertfordshire County Council to bring the Christmas Kindness project to reality and to know that so many people will not only have a wonderful box of gifts, but also know that someone cares about them too. Together we are stronger."
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Small Acts of Kindness’ aim is to reduce loneliness and isolation for older people by connecting communities with kindness.
They have over 250 volunteers and work with 90 partner organisations to help them reach hundreds of older people each year. For more information about the work they do click here.
HertsHelp can offer information and advice about a range of services across the county, including linking you with local people, groups and COVID-19 secure befriending services.
For more information call 0300 123 4044, email [email protected] or visit www.hertshelp.net.