Christmas Cheer 2024: Your support made it happen!

Why Christmas Cheer matters

At Marmalade Trust, we know that the Christmas period is often the most painful time of year for those struggling with loneliness and isolation. So, for the 12th year in a row, we've made it our mission to reach out to anyone who would otherwise be alone, and to support them to feel connected and cared for.

This winter, we are proud to have brought joy and companionship to 200 people experiencing long-term loneliness in our region. Everyone who joined us was made to feel part of our Marmalade family and were supported by our network of over 150 wonderful volunteers.

Our VIP guests

Members are those who feel particularly lonely and isolated this year, for example, a person of an older age who may have no family or friends around. Our members are our VIP guests, and we do whatever we can to make Christmas a joyful time of year for each individual.

After months of careful planning, we can't tell you the joy it brings us to see our Marmalade members enjoying their Christmas Day. We also love it when our members call us afterwards and tell us how much fun they had: "I cannot express enough in words what a lot it meant to me" one member expressed. Another said, "Christmas Day for me was the happiest I have known for years.  The food was out of this world and the company was wonderful, especially the volunteers." These words underline the significance of the connections made and the joy experienced.

This incredible campaign wouldn't have been possible without the network of people who rally around to support us, be it volunteers giving their time, organisations donating gifts, or our donors who kindly provide vital funds so we can continue to support our members. Thanks to you, we were able to be there for those who have no one else to call on.

Let's hear it for the volunteers!

Our team of volunteers are at the heart of what we do, and this year, we were pleased to recruit a total of 150 wonderful people for the project. We were totally blown away by the generosity shown by our incredible volunteer family. One volunteer told us: "Thank you so much for letting me be part of today. It was a real privilege to be involved, and I hope you had a great Christmas too. The world needs more people like you."

Homechoir

On Christmas morning, Homechoir's festive singalong was a resounding success, filling homes with joy, music, and connection. Voices united as Christmas Cheer members, volunteers, friends, family, and supporters gathered online for a heartwarming session led by Ben England BEM.

The event on Homechoir's YouTube channel created a beautiful sense of togetherness, with participants sharing smiles, songs, and festive cheer. Many attendees expressed how the singalong brought light to their day, helping them feel part of a caring community on what can be a lonely time of year.

Our very kind community

A big thank you to the businesses and organisations whose generosity in contributing gifts, treats, and support brought joy to so many this Christmas.

So many organisations and funders have supported Christmas Cheer 2024. Thank you to all the trusts, organisations and people who have provided financial and ‘Gifts in Kind’ support. Thanks also to the other donors and supporters who wish to remain anonymous.

As we reflect on the success of our Christmas Cheer project, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. Your support and generosity made this possible. Christmas with Marmalade Trust was a highlight for many, and it's all thanks to your kindness.

From all of us at Marmalade Trust, thank you for making this festive season truly special.