Home Instead Senior Care Taunton have once again launched their annual Christmas campaign, asking local residents to ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ in Taunton this year and donate gifts to seniors who may not otherwise receive one this year.
2020 has been a difficult year for everyone, but particularly for older people, with many having to shield and have been unable to see their family and friends. With the Christmas period looking uncertain, Home Instead wanted to bring Christmas cheer to the elderly in our community this year.
They have set up donation points at the Tesco Express Galmington and St. Michael’s Church, where people can donate festive gifts which will be distributed to seniors across the area. Donations of gifts can be made at these points until 17th December, enabling Home Instead staff and volunteers to distribute the presents in time for Christmas.
Owner of Home Instead, Vanessa Munson commented: “We recommend donating a gift that is £5 or under, with some suggestions being hats, scarves, gloves, socks, toiletries, calendars, confectionary and small food items. We ask that these donated gifts be wrapped and labelled. The more gifts that are donated, the more Christmas cheer we can spread!”
Home Instead has teamed up with the Salvation Army who will help identify seniors who would benefit from receiving a gift this festive season. They have also partnered with the Veterans society, who are treating 75 local veterans to a Christmas lunch where they will also receive a donated gift, and Barchester care home who will receive a number of gifts for their residents.
Their Christmas campaign is also being supported by students at local schools, Trull C of E Primary School and Bridgewater and Taunton College, alongside young people at ‘My Day’, a local organisation which supports young people with learning and physical difficulties. They will all be making Christmas cards which will be sent with the donated presents, as well as to Home Instead clients.
Owner of Home Instead, Vanessa Munson commented: “Christmas will be different for all of us this year, but particularly so for older people. Many will be unable to see friends or family, and we want to bring some Christmas cheer to seniors who may find themselves alone on Christmas this year. We are hoping the donated gifts and cards will bring smiles to the faces of the elderly in our community!”
Home Instead provide home care services to elderly and vulnerable people throughout the local area, with their services ranging from home help and companionship, to more specialist dementia care. To find out more about their services please call 01823 760660 or visit https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/taunton-west-somerset/.