Local workplaces, including Gower College and Dezrez Legal, played a crucial role in our success. Gower College’s Health and Social Care team chose to donate through our campaign instead of their usual Secret Santa exchange, and Dezrez Legal supported us remarkably by donating a substantial number of gifts. The result? An incredible collection of over 700 gifts!
These gifts will be distributed to hundreds of lonely seniors nominated by local organisations including Ty Olwen End of Life Hospice,CREST (Mental Health Service), Swans Foundation, Ospreys in the Community, Swansea Council for Voluntary Service, local care homes, and the general public. From Baileys to Bananagrams, pyjamas to chocolates, every senior received their Christmas wish no matter how specific! This year’s campaign has truly exemplified the spirit of giving, ensuring that every nominated senior is reminded that they are not alone and that people are thinking of them this festive period.
William Webb, the Day Service Officer at CREST, a Mental Health Service base in Cwmbwrla, said:
“We have numerous service users who attend that struggle with this time of the year, and those donations are going to put a smile on our guys’ faces that I don’t think will be going anytime soon.”
Daisy, the Dementia and Carer Development Officer at Swansea Council for Voluntary Service, organised for her social group members without families to receive some special gifts. Daisy said:
“Everyone loved their presents yesterday, thank you so much, it made their months!”
The overwhelming and heart-warming response from the community also garnered coverage on local radio, spreading the word and rallying even more support – including the backing of Swansea City Football Club. Hayley, our Head of Supported Services, and the team at the Swans helped spread the word about the campaign and worked together with us to host a magical afternoon at Fairwood Training Grounds, where the Men’s first team train. Older people in our community who are Swans fans were invited to enjoy a delicious three-course meal among new friends, served by the first team players themselves, including local boy Liam Cullen. With another special appearance from team manager Liam Williams, it truly was a day to remember for all who attended.
Kate Webb, our Marketing Manager and ‘Be a Santa’ project lead, reflected on this year’s campaign:
“In my third year running this Christmas campaign with Home Instead Swansea, I can’t express how amazed and appreciative we have been for everyone’s support this year, especially. The donations seemed to start and not stop, and everyone was so thoughtful with the items they donated. The generosity of our Swansea community certainly made us proud to be a part of it, and we can’t wait to bring ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ back next year on an even bigger scale!”
Without our ‘Drop-Off Points’ we would have been lost, so we also want to thank Align Therapies – Osteopathy & Wellbeing Clinics, The Quadrant, Bishopston & LC Leisure Centres, The Red Lion and The Plough and Harrow.
Finally, we would like to thank Ceri, and the staff and students from Penyrheol Comprehensive for creating lots of beautiful and personalised Christmas cards for our recipients. They really added another special touch to a heart-warming campaign!
We express profound gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ campaign. The support from the community has significantly impacted the lives of many local seniors. Special thanks go to the volunteers, donors, and partners for their unwavering commitment and kindness. Looking ahead to next year, we are excited to bring even more Christmas cheer to the people of Swansea.
About Home Instead Swansea
We are dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to enable seniors in the local community to stay at home, where they are happiest. Our ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ campaign is one of many initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for older adults and ensuring they feel valued and remembered.
Contact: Home Instead Swansea Kate Webb (Marketing Manager) (01792) 790890 [email protected]