LOCAL charity, Purple Elephant, is supporting families with a range of treats this Christmas to help make sure Frome children don’t miss out at this special time of year.
For families who need support, Purple Elephant has arranged a series of Christmas parties in warm, welcoming spaces in the week before the big day. Santa will be there to give each child an individually-selected present and there will be festive crafts and magical entertainment.
“There will be a delicious, healthy meal at each party, for a total of around 100 people, provided by partner charity, Fair Frome,” says a spokesperson for the charity.
“Whilst Christmas is a time of celebration for many, with over 20% of local area households eligible for free school meals, many families will struggle to meet basic needs before considering where the extra money for treats will come from.
“For many families, the greatest challenges come from parenting and caring for children with additional needs, so the charity’s focus at this time of year is to ensure the whole family is involved, with adults joining in so that everyone gets to have fun together.
“Treats this year include free tickets for 143 people to see Christmas performances of Elf -The Musical and Snow White at the Merlin and Memorial theatres, plus a special performance from Wise Children at new theatre, The Lucky Chance.
“All three shows are relaxed performances; this is an adjusted approach to regular theatre rules where lighting and sound is adapted to support sensory needs and where nobody tuts or stares if audience members move around or chat – so that parents don’t feel judged and children can be free to be themselves!”
Purple Elephant trustee Helen Fielden said, “Christmas is a fabulous time of year but for some it is also really stressful and can put pressure on already stretched finances. We aim to bring a bit of joy and fun to families who need support at this time of year, as well as giving them practical help around healthy eating and managing money. As well as our regular year-round services, we’ll give little extras to all the families we support, like £10 Iceland vouchers to help with the Christmas meal.”
As part of Purple Elephant’s ongoing partnership work, the charity is also adding to Fair Frome’s Food At Five meal sessions and Community Lunches by running a kids’ corner, allowing adults to focus on the advice and guidance that Fair Frome gives, while the children play with toys, enjoy creative activities or even do their homework, accompanied by an adult support worker from Purple Elephant.
Purple Elephant is asking local people to help it in supporting families over Christmas by donating via www.PurpleElephant.org.uk/support-us.
