Pupils bring festive cheer to care homes
PUPILS at Milnrow Parish and Belfield Primary School, have been busy decorating, colouring and writing more than 200 Christmas cards, designed by Belfield Art Group, over the last few weeks.
The Christmas cards have been written and personalised by the children and will be delivered to over 200 care home residents in the Milnrow and Rochdale area in the run up to Christmas.
Cathryn Romero, Deputy Head Teacher at Milnrow Parish said: “The children have loved doing the cards, understanding who they are for and contributing to the community.
“As a school we enjoy developing a sense of pride and care for our school community and that around us so this project has been a perfect opportunity to do just that.”
The Christmas Card project is being driven by The Co-Operative Member Pioneer for Milnrow, Jenny Allen.
She said: “As a community we have been very aware of how isolating the pandemic has been for many residents and through this project we wanted to bring some Christmas cheer to individuals and staff in care homes.
“I have been overwhelmed by the response and support from the local community.’ Belfield Art Group (BAG) are one of three local causes that are currently being supported with funding from The Co-Operative.
Neil Bamford from the art group, said: “We provide art education to the people of Belfield and surrounding area, but even more importantly in these times we are now providing vital contact through zoom to many people who would not speak or see another human being for many days.”
Neil can take credit for the Christmas cards that have been brought to life and printed with support from The Co-operative, Milnrow that will be delivered to care home residents over the coming weeks. When local care home residents receive their cards they will also get a card of their own to design and decorate so they too can send one to family members.
Donna Tucker, Deputy Manager at Lakeside Residential Home was extremely happy to be involved in the project.
She said: “It is so important for the residents to receive this little bit of happiness in a card.
“They have had a very tough few months and we cannot wait to give them a small piece of joy this Christmas.
“A project of true cooperation that has brought the community together regardless of the challenges we face.”