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The countdown to Christmas is officially on, and we're really looking forward to bringing plenty of festive cheer and companionship to those who would otherwise be alone on Christmas Day!
At Marmalade Trust, we know that the Christmas period is often the most painful time of year for those struggling with loneliness and isolation. This year, more than ever before, we've made it our mission to reach out to anyone who would otherwise be alone, and to support them to feel connected and cared for.
Every member will be matched with a kind volunteer who will either make a doorstep visit on Christmas Day with a hamper full of gifts or take them along to one of our fabulous events. Connection Advent Calendars, which offer a chance to connect or keep busy behind every door, are also being delivered this week.
What’s in the Connection Advent Calendars?
Brace yourself... this is quite a list!!
First and foremost, we'd like to say a huge thank you to RH Fibreboard who kindly donated 250 boxes which hold all of the advent calendar goodies below, and Jess Grimsdale who designed the beautiful graphic on the front of each calendar.
A Christmas card handmade by a local school child from Oake Primary School
A stunning reindeer decoration handmade by Bristol Junior Chamber
Exercise sheets from Bristol Bears Community Foundation
Puzzle and colouring sheets from Wyldwood Arts
A gingerbread maze
A Christmas cookie recipe
A Christmas decoration by CFO Activity Hub
Van Houten hot chocolate and Border biscuits from Wards Solicitors
A tote bag from Age UK Bristol
A face mask from St. Monica Trust
A Christmas card from our team at Marmalade Trust
A handwritten letter by a local school child from St. Mary Redcliffe School
Loads of games and activities provided by volunteers, including a newspaper scavenger hunt, a wildlife quiz, yoga exercises, word searches and a reindeer sudoku!
We’re so grateful for the kind organisations and businesses who have helped make these advent calendars possible, including our friends at Fountain Print for their help and support with printing.
We also want to say a big thank you to the UWE paramedic students who helped us put together and deliver the calendars!
