Page 45 - Phonebox Magazine November 2014

‘Charity Begins At Home’ Appeal
Who remembers the article ‘Charity begins at Home’ in the February 2014 edition of Phonebox?
This recalled the phone interview that Jeremy Vine did with someone who lived on the minimum wage and the outcome from it. The fact that they could not afford to both heat their home and eat – and they felt very alone especially at Christmas. As a result of this the ‘Charity Begins At Home’ appeal was launched and there was a wonderful response, not only from the people of Olney but further afield in the way of monetary donations to the appeal.
We had food donated for food parcels that were given out to individuals and families who were in need both old and young. Presents were donated for children, families and those who were on their own at Christmas. Then there was the Christmas lunch, held in the Church Hall on Christmas Day which saw both old and young (plus volunteers) sitting down for lunch together. One of the most touching
moments last year for two of the volunteers was when they delivered ‘meals on wheels’ to a couple. The lady had just come out of hospital, no care was in place yet and the husband was doing this. In their 80s this can be challenging especially with their family away – they were very touched by the generosity we showed them and they were so impressed that the gentleman had dressed up in his Sunday best, had laid the table and even had a table decoration. They were there for a mere five minutes but to them it made their day.
The monies that were donated were put into a fund for those in need which has been used this year for families and people who could not meet a specific bill, uniform for school or even food to last a few days. The fund will once again be open for donations to support those families and individuals who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in need of a helping hand. mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/christmaslunch
We would like to do the same again this year with more people involved helping to
co-ordinate the gifts, food parcels and food for lunch and helping with the lunch on Christmas Day. It was all a last minute idea last year so we are hoping by starting early we can make even more of a difference. Lunch is open to those who will not be able to meet the expense at this time of year whether single, a family old or young – or even anyone that would like company or a change of scenery on Christmas Day – you are more than welcome to make a donation to your meal if you wish to. We can even deliver lunch to you at home if you would prefer, do please talk to us.
Please contact us via the Church Office (Pat and Tanya) office@olneyparish.org.uk or telephone 01234 241721, anything you can spare in terms of time and donations would be greatly appreciated. It is fun, you meet new people both young and old. Or if you know anyone that would appreciate a little cheer at Christmas do contact us.
19 St John Street, Newport Pagnell, MK16 8HE 01908 210688 www.roypinkcycles.co.uk
Phonebox Magazine 45
Christmas vouchers