HEART of the Community have celebrated another successful Christmas lunch event for the more vulnerable members of Calne who visit them at Coleman's Farm.
Heart of the Community started to think about their annual Christmas Lunch on September and the event was fully booked the same day that their lunch was promoted.
While six of the volunteers planned and executed the lunch, the elves were kept busy to provide personalilsed gifts for everyone. Many of the gifts were made and donated by Purple Lily Crafts.
Mary Wakeham, Founding Trustee kept busy front of house, ensuring that all the guests were happy, while other team members, Julie and Tracey, either helped fellow trustee Ian Wakeham and Louise Frances with the cooking or serving the feast.
Mary said: "We were delighted to have Calne Singers with us to provide interactive entertainment that everyone enjoyed.
"It seems that it has become a bit of a traditon that our lunch is held on the Friday before Christmas, and we are grateful to Calne Town Council and the One Stop carrier bag scheme for their financial assistance that made lunch possible.
"The extravaganza seemingly went without a hitch, with all the guests going home full of food and happiness."
This year the charity asked for feedback from their guests, and the comments they received included ' Sharing is caring, it was perfect and the gifts were excellent '.
During the debriefing session, it was felt that the only issue that needed addressing was lack of room, knowing that the organisation could have filled the hall twice over caused some discomfort.
Mary explained: "The thought that we could help other people meant that we are considering holding it at larger premises next year.
"It also became apparent that it would be hypocritical of us to help the community combat social isolation while leaving some of the volunteers alone on Christmas day. So, it was decided to return to Coleman's Farm on the 25th, to enjoy a shared lunch together alongside games and laughter.
"All the volunteers felt that they were not just random people who come into the centre, but saw each other as part of an extended family."
One volunteer added: "How could we support the community if we didn't support those closest to us?' Ian and his team of volunteers provided a 4 course meal for 38 guests, most of whom were regulars at the centre on 22nd with a team effort providing another feast on 25th for the 12 volunteers."
To find out more about the resources available at Heart of the Community visit the website https://www.heart-of-the-community.org/
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