Christmas Lunch for the homeless and those on their own at Christmas

Once again Medway Sunlight Rotary Club teamed up with the Chatham Salvation Army to provide warmth, companionship and a hot meal on Christmas Day at the Salvation Army Hall in Chatham.  This is the 8th year the Club has been involved in providing a Christmas Meal and support for those at Christmas who would otherwise find it an even more lonely time of year than normal. 

Over 20 Volunteers toiled away on Dec 23rd to prepare in advance the turkeys, potatoes, carrots, parsnips and the obligatory brussel sprouts together with Christmas Pud and all the trimmings.  The organisation went so well that all the preps were finished by 11.30 and everything all safely stored away ready for Christmas Day

Three families, who had their own cooking facilities had their Christmas Meal together with wrapped presents distributed in advance on the 23rd.

On Christmas morning 25 volunteers started at 07:30 am and calmly had everything cooked, the tables laid, crackers put out ready and even take-out teas prepared in good time before the guests arrived. 

All in all we welcomed 35 guests and as they arrived volunteers buddied up and made them all feel welcome.  A lovely time was had by all those present throughout the afternoon with a hot meal also delivered to 4 further families.

All in all a great effort all round which provided some lonely and vulnerable people with an unforgettable Christmas.  Many thanks to all those who helped and to the many people who donated time, money or goods to make it all possible.

We look forward to Christmas 2022!