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While Christmas is often filled with the warmth of family and festive celebrations, for many, it can be one of the loneliest, most painful days of the year. A time when isolation, loss and grief are even more keenly felt. We don’t want anyone to spend Christmas Day alone if they don’t want to, so we invite them to join us for a free festive lunch on the big day, or a doorstep visit. Everyone is made to feel part of the Marmalade family!
Joss and Terry
We got in touch with Terry back in 2020 and invited him along to one of our Christmas Cheer events near where he lives. We matched him with volunteer Joss, who drove to his house to pick him up. Along with other guests, they spent the day laughing, sharing stories, eating Christmas dinner and getting to know each other.
Joss wanted to volunteer at Christmas because he loves making new friends and spending time with people from other generations. “The day is filled with fun and laughter and joy, and it’s a great thing to be a part of.” Joss even brought funny stick-on bowties and glasses to the venue which got everyone having a giggle and posing for photos.
Joss and Terry bonded over their love for mountaineering - Terry told tales of climbing Kilimanjaro in 1964 and has promised to bring photos of him at the summit to show Joss next time they meet. Joss is a keen mountaineerer and is soon off on his next adventure to North Montenegro.
When Terry ordered a glass of rum, the pair got to talking about Bristol’s famous African-Caribbean festival called St. Pauls Carnival, which Terry used to go to, and Joss has been to more recently. They shared stories about how much Bristol has changed over the years. Since Christmas, Joss has invited Terry out for a pint at his local, hopefully joined by another Christmas Day guest called Gilbert.
Join our volunteer family
Each year, our small team at Marmalade HQ are overwhelmed with how many kind people offer their time to support their community. Through our Christmas Cheer and Marmalade Companion projects, we reach out to those most at risk of loneliness, guiding them to vital support and empowering them to make new friendships and connections.
Joining us as a volunteer not only changes lives but also offers a chance to forge lasting friendships, enjoy meaningful experiences, and truly connect with your community. We are so grateful for the kindness and generosity of our volunteers, many of whom have been with us since the beginning! Marmalade volunteers say they feel supported and valued and enjoy meeting new, like-minded people.
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