Christmas can be a beautiful experience but for some it can be a reminder of the challenges so many face.
Spending a day on your own exacerbates these emotions so the Anglican Church in Singleton is attempting to take some of the anxiety away.
Back in 2006 the Singleton Parish of the Anglican Church decided to hold a lunch on Christmas Day. It was about connecting people who may have otherwise spent the day alone.
The concept grew and over time the event has been held at the Senior Citizens Centre and Singleton Showground under the auspices of Samaritans but still largely offered by Singleton volunteers.
Through covid the delivery of this very important event consisted of a pickup point and then there was an open air picnic but this year the event goes back to the place where it all started.
Wendy Love was involved in that first Christmas lunch and has been involved ever since.
Volunteers come out of the woodwork and the sponsor list grows every year.
The invite is out to the community to come along. The event is from 11am to 2pm, it includes a wonderful lunch, entertainment, carols and gifts for everyone. There will be much laughter and love so it is just a matter of turning up to the Anglican Church grounds in High Street, Singleton, if you would like to come along.
This year the event is on Christmas eve, December 24. You can just turn up if you feel you would like on the day.
Organisers are grateful for the overwhelming support from businesses who assist with the delivery of this event.
“We could not do it without this support and I am always so very grateful for the donations and assistance from our sponsors,” Wendy said.
She thanked Singleton Council, AGL, Yancoal, Glencore’s Mt Owen/Glendell operation, Singleton Diggers and Cole Air for their commitment to this very important event.
If you would like to know more information Wendy suggests you call Michell on 0419 243 025.
“We invite the community to come along and enjoy the spirit of Christmas, everyone deserves a wonderful experience and we are doing our best to make sure those who need the support receive it,” Wendy said.