A new Melksham-based charity, Christmas Cheer, has launched with a mission to ensure local families in need can enjoy a festive Christmas dinner.
The charity aims to supply 50 Christmas hampers filled with fresh food, everything necessary to cook a traditional holiday meal, and even a family board game to bring some extra joy to the Christmas season.
“At Christmas Cheer, we believe every family deserves a special Christmas meal, regardless of their financial situation,” said trustee Clare Richter. “We provide traditional, nutritious holiday dinners to families experiencing poverty or hardship, ensuring they can enjoy a festive meal they otherwise couldn’t afford. We’re committed to spreading the warmth and joy of Christmas, one meal at a time.”
Founded by three trustees – Clare Richter, Barnie Abraham and Richard Aylward – the charity is the result of Richard’s long-standing efforts to help families during the festive season. “It was all Richard’s idea,” Clare explained. “He’s been doing it by himself for a number of years but wanted to help more families, so starting a charity seemed like the next logical step.”
The hampers, each valued at £100, will contain all the essentials for a Christmas dinner, including turkey, potatoes, vegetables, pigs in blankets, sauces, and pudding. Families will also receive Christmas crackers, mince pies, chocolates, cheese and biscuits, mulled wine, and a board game to enjoy together. Each hamper will also include a personalised Christmas card.
In an effort to reach those who could benefit most, Christmas Cheer has contacted local schools, asking for recommendations of families in need. The charity hopes to grow its efforts year after year, spreading festive spirit to more households in the future.
To make the initiative a success, Christmas Cheer is seeking support from the community. “We’re looking for people to sponsor hampers, donate funds, or volunteer their time,” Clare said. “We need help packing the hampers, delivering them, and even storing fresh produce in fridges. Every contribution makes a difference.”
A £100 donation will sponsor a hamper for one family, and local businesses that contribute will be acknowledged on the charity’s Facebook page. Christmas Cheer is aiming to raise £5,000 to cover the cost of all 50 hampers this year.
To support the charity, make a donation, or volunteer, contact Christmas Cheer via email at contactchristmascheer@gmail.com.
“Join us in making the season brighter for those in need!” Clare added.
Pictured: Richard, Clare and Barnie
