This annual event run brings together local volunteer and community groups. This year the focus was clearly on spreading much needed joy and information.
The Town hall and theatre turned into a magical wonderland for the day. Many stand-bearers dressed in Victorian festive gear, generously giving their time to help others.
Raising awareness is especially important this year with the cost of living crisis. Having lived in the area for nearly 40 years I had no idea there was so much support out there for me.
From free decorations to community hubs providing ‘stay warm’ facilities. Free goody bags and face painting for children. Local charities selling gifts to raise much needed funds.
Local residents were treated to free information services whilst also lapping up some homemade art and craft goods and secondhand Christmas gifts at great prices.
Even an opportunity to come together with others in the cafe area, with homemade cakes available and a mince pie or two to be seen.
The end result of a relatively short, sharp outing? A positive selection of leaflets, Christmas decorations and a knitted doll! But more than that — much more important — a sense of community spirit. Something to become a part of.
Now I know there are art clubs, a craft group and a lunch club. There are collection days for warm weather packages available to those who are carers, disabled and on benefits. There are link workers available to help with social subscribing.
A genuinely mesmerising example of community spirit, resilience, smiles, support and coming together. Something special — the warmth showed by others — not to mention the chance for people to be in the warm. At £1 a person, this event showed more than value for money.
For many, this could well be the start of something completely uplifting: even life-changing. And deeply satisfying for those who enabled that to happen.
Learn more with the CVST Bringing Unity To Our Community Team: https://www.cvstendring.org.uk
Images courtesy of CVST
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