Residents across Jigsaw’s neighbourhoods got into the Christmas spirit last week; enjoying some cracking Christmas activities and delicious lunches thanks to Jigsaw’s neighbourhood engagement team.
More than 50 adults and children joined in the festive fun at the children’s Christmas party at the Jigsaw Hub in Dukinfield. They got to meet Father Christmas in his grotto and took part in seasonal themed crafts, tombola, raffles and shared festive food.
It was organised by officer John McGlynn and the volunteers from the Peoples Community Dukinfield and funded by the Jigsaw Foundation. The group raised £150 which will go towards family events and activities planned at the hub in 2024.
Over 55s tenants tucked into Christmas dinner in Buttermere and Coppull in Chorley, organised by Tracy Townson. Activity packs for children along with Freshfood market vouchers were also handed out to help address holiday hunger.
It was a real family feel as the Newton Group and Acresfield Community Garden team got together along with other community members to organise a Christmas event with help from officer Tanuja Patel. It involved food, music, games and bingo, which really brought the community together.
In Stalybridge, residents had a real spring in their step at the Springs Seniors Christmas party held at the Baptist Church. Guest singers from Silver Springs Primary Academy choir performed Christmas songs, followed by a lunch including Christmas cake and savoury treats, organised by officer Deanne Clayton.
Older residents enjoyed a Christmas lunch, followed by bingo and a raffle at Holy Trinity Community Centre in Ashton, organised by Minaz Aslam. Joined by the Mayor of Tameside, they were entertained by the choir from Holy Trinity Primary School who performed Christmas carols and songs.
The team also provided £1,000 to Moss Side Allotments who prepared food hampers for tenants in Moss Side and Fallowfield via referrals from Jigsaw’s Money Advice team and the Hardship fund.
Officers Tanuja and Julie Fraser delivered 21 hampers at Hibiscus Court and families across South Manchester.
