Kindhearted children at a Livingston primary school have been helping spread Christmas cheer to older people across West Lothian.
Pupils at Peel Primary have donated bags full of goodies which are being shared with members of the Food Train across the region.
They have collected the festive treats after children in primary four learned about the charity’s work to help people aged 65 and over live better lives at home.
Their Helping Hands Project gave them insight into the work done by volunteers to ensure that older people do not just go without essential shopping supplies, but how good company and good meals makes a huge difference to their lives.
And, such was the impact of hearing that story, that the children decided to gather some gifts which are being shared across the region. They also created special Christmas cards for Food Train’s volunteers and designed bookmarks for members of its library service.
Lorna Farquhar, Food Train’s regional manager for West Lothian, said: “This is the third year that we’ve taken part in the Helping Hands Project and it’s brilliant. The children are amazing.
“The whole school has got behind the collection. These bags of happiness from Peel Primary will deliver some real cheer to older people across West Lothian this Christmas. It makes a real difference to everyone.
“It’s really hard to put into words how much the school’s support means. For our volunteers – who expect nothing for what they do – they’ve been so chuffed to receive the cards.”
Volunteers with Food Train West Lothian’s shopping service alone are busy ensuring older people have all they need for the festive season – with about 130 deliveries each week. That’s on top of the work of its befriending, meal making, home support and library services.
Elsewhere, Food Train West Lothian has also received bags of goodies – including blankets, chocolates and shortbread – from care company Home Instead. They too are being shared among members.
Other donations – including shoeboxes full of goodies and cash towards the charity’s work – have also been made in recent weeks.
Food Train has also organised a panto trip to see Mother Goose at Howden, and bus trips – with mince pies and alcohol-free mulled wine served – to see some of the Christmas lights displays locally.
Lorna added: “People have been so generous and our members delighted with what we’ve been able to share with them. We’re really grateful for the support. There’s a real buzz around the team.”
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
