Readers make sure it’s a Christmas for all in Hereford

Big-hearted readers of the Hereford Times will bring the magic of Christmas to 70 families in need this year.

They have responded magnificently to our 2021 Christmas Appeal – in partnership with the Herefordshire Community Foundation – reaching the £2,000 target within days of the campaign’s close.

The money will go to Hereford charity the Living Room in time despatch 70 festive parcels to those who would otherwise struggle to have the foods and treats most of us are able to enjoy at this time of year.

The charity’s chief executive, Mel Groves, said: “We thank the Hereford Times and all the readers who have supported us in this appeal.

“Any money left over will help us to continue to support people in food poverty over the coming month, which may be difficult for a lot of people.”

The Living Room is a café, community larder and safe community space in Commercial Road, Hereford. Volunteers there were continuing this week to wrap parcels of food and gifts ready for distribution.

A volunteer prepares a Hereford Times Christmas Appeal food package at the Living Room in Hereford

Each parcel contains a Christmas Day lunch for families and a week’s supply of food.

They will also have some seasonal goodies and where possible a small gift for children, all paid for from the generous donations of Hereford Times readers.

Parcels will be distributed through Living Room partners and families with whom the charity is already working.

Hereford Times editor John Wilson said: “These aren’t easy times for anyone, so I am especially grateful that Hereford Times readers have supported this appeal and thought of those people less fortunate than themselves.

“Through their donations, they have touched the lives of others with the spirit of Christmas.”