Hairmyres staff help homeless
Every year Christmas staff at Hairmyres Hospital spread some goodwill with a charitable collection – and this year they supported the homeless.
Over the last three weeks workers have been dropping off donations of winter woolies, bedding, toys and toiletries and tinned and dry foods to the hospital Sanctuary.
Organisers Andrew Craig (medical illustration) and Patricia Johnston (spiritual care chaplain) told the News they have been “overwhelmed” by people’s generosity.
Ms Johnston said: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the generosity of our colleagues that make up our Hairmyres family. Pulling together like this as a hospital is a wonderful way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.”
Claire Henry is the lead nurse from NHS Lanarkshire’s Health and Homelessness outreach service, which is dedicated to providing healthcare support to individuals and families across Lanarkshire affected by homelessness or at risk of becoming so.
She said: “When Andrew called us with the idea for this year’s collection, it was most welcome. While we work to support patients all year round, the festive season is a particularly difficult time of year for those affected by homelessness – especially those with young children.”
Mr Craig added: “Claire and her team have been amazing. Because of the care they provide on a day-to-day basis and their contacts with homeless charities, they were not only able to advise what type of donations would be of the greatest help – but have also sorted and distributed the donations – so they get to exactly where they’re needed most.”
The Sanctuary is a place of support for all patients, visitors and staff at Hairmyres, whenever they need it.
But this Christmas its also been home to a very generous outpouring of care to help others in the community feel more comfortable and cared for at this very special time of year.
The festive season is a difficult time of year...