Rutherglen Reformer

To those who live alone

Festive lunch boost

- Douglas Dickie

A Rutherglen opticians joined forces with the Salvation Army this week to provide support for pensioners.

Specsavers on Stonelaw Road is supporting two Christmas lunches being hosted by the Rutherglen Salvation Army.

The store is helping with the cost of food and drink at the lunch clubs. The first took place on Monday, December 11, with the second taking place later today, Wednesday.

Despite running lunch clubs throughout the year, the Christmas events provide additional support at what can be a particular­ly difficult time for older people who may feel alone and isolated.

Specsavers store director Peter Beaton says: “The Salvation Army’s lunch club is a vital part of the dayto-day routine for vulnerable older people in Rutherglen.

“It not only provides hearty and filling food – it also offers support and company. It’s such an important part of the community and we’re very proud to be involved in sponsoring two of the festive events.

“Christmas can be a very lonely time of year for a lot of people, especially older ladies and gents. The Salvation Army does a lot to alleviate feelings of social isolation and is a fantastic source of support. We’re delighted to be involved.”

Major Mary Boyd at the Salvation Army thanked the store and added: “Our Christmas lunches are very popular and they’re a very important social event for older people who are facing the prospect of Christmas alone.

“It’s likely we’ll see around 60 people across the two lunch days, so the store is doing a lot to help a significan­t number of older people in the community.”

For more informatio­n on the Christmas lunch clubs, call Mary and the Salvation Army team on 0141 647 0910.

 ??  ?? Helping hand Specsavers practice co-owner Ann Beaton with Salvation Army captain Mary Boyd, club member Betty Dewar and Specsavers deputy manager Jade Eaglesham
Helping hand Specsavers practice co-owner Ann Beaton with Salvation Army captain Mary Boyd, club member Betty Dewar and Specsavers deputy manager Jade Eaglesham

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