Jacksons Lane is appealing for donations to host 100 vulnerable and elderly on Christmas Day.
For 46 years, the Highgate arts centre has opened its doors to welcome those who would otherwise be alone on December 25. During the pandemic, they sent out an army of volunteers to knock on doors, deliver food and presents, and have a chat.
For the first time in three years, they be serving up a turkey dinner and entertainment in their newly renovated building, while volunteers also deliver 200 Christmas hampers to those who can't be there in-person.
Over the years the event has become a regular fixture for guests, including Daphne, who said: "I live in sheltered housing and would like to say a big Thank You to the volunteers who gave up their time on Christmas Day to give all the old people a hot Christmas dinner. The Christmas card made by local school children was a nice touch. Little things like that mean a lot when you're old and no longer able to enjoy the festive season in the way that you would like.”
To make the day happen, Jacksons Lane is taking part in the Big Give, with donations made up to December 6 through the online portal matched up to £15,000.
Executive Director and joint CEO, Hannah Cox, said: “Community and connection are at the heart of our work, and we know how vital our Christmas Day offer is to the older adults we work with. We’re delighted to be bringing this special celebration back into our building while still ensuring we are supporting those unable to join us in person. Every year we rely on the generous support of our incredible volunteers and partners, and this year, with the impact of the cost of living crisis, the support of our local community is more important than ever.”
Christmas Day Coordinator, Molly Wilson said: “Christmas Day at Jacksons Lane has such a long-standing history in Haringey and for many of our guests, this is the highlight of the festive period. It's a testament to the generosity of local people, businesses, and communities that it has been running since 1975. This year will be our largest event to date as we welcome people back into the building for the first Christmas since the start of the pandemic. I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of it and to work with such a wonderfully generous group of people.”
Anyone donating a gift for a guest can drop it off unwrapped at the front desk in Archway Road. For information on donating and volunteering on the day go to https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/join-in/christmas-day/ or email christmas@jacksonslane.org.uk
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