Despite the cancellation of its traditional lunch in Ripon, The Salvation Army has given gifts and festive treats to those in need across the Harrogate district.
On Christmas Day 2019, the Salvation Army Hall on Lead Lane was a hive of activity, as volunteers cooked and served three-course meals for dozens of people.
The lunch, held annually for almost two decades, will not take place today. As in 2020, it has fallen victim to coronavirus.
For the usual attendees, who are lonely, short of money or have health issues, the cancellation will come as a disappointment.
But behind the scenes, the spirit of Christmas has continued.
Although unable to invite guests for lunch, The Salvation Army has reached out to hundreds of men, women and children across the Harrogate district.
Donated gifts and festive treats (some of which are pictured above) were gathered through its annual appeal, from individuals, retailers and other businesses.
They have now been given to more than 150 families facing difficult circumstances.
Pat Clark and Alison Hewitt – members of the church leadership team at Lead Lane – have witnessed the growing need across the district, as an increasing number of people have struggled to make ends meet.
Both believe that a combination of factors, including the increased cost of gas and electricity, the end of the furlough scheme, rising food prices and changes to Universal Credit, have added to a worsening situation for many.
Pat, told the Stray Ferret:
“Because of the semi-rural area that we live in, wages are traditionally low for a large number of people and those on a tight budget have no room for manoeuvre.
“This can lead to them getting trapped in a level of debt that they can’t handle and they don’t know where to turn.
“We are here to listen and help in a confidential and non-judgemental way.”
Alison, added:
“This year we have seen a lot more families who have been finding it hard and Christmas puts them under even greater financial pressure.
“We hope that the gift packs that we are able to give them through the appeal have helped to ease their burden.”
The packs include four gifts, a book and a selection box for children and there are also presents for adults.
In addition, each family receives a bag of festive food goodies.
The names of recipients, which remain confidential, are provided by agencies that act as a link between those in need and The Salvation Army.
It is not as yet known if the Christmas Day lunch will be able to return next year, but the annual appeal will continue to provide a lifeline for families in the festive season.
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