Christmas appeal launched to support local families and homelessness centres

S. Wellens & Sons Funeral Directors in Middleton has launched its annual Christmas appeal to assist families in need and support local homeless centres this festive season.

The initiative aims to bring joy to struggling families across Middleton, Rochdale, Heywood, and the surrounding areas.

The funeral directors are collecting donations of toys and selection boxes for children, as well as warm winter clothing and shopping vouchers for homeless centres.

They are specifically seeking new socks, underwear, hats, gloves, scarves, and feminine hygiene products. All donations can be dropped off at S. Wellens & Sons on Long Street, Middleton.

The appeal also supports local centres, including the Bowlee Community Centre, as well as the Petrus and Brentwood homeless charities.

A highlight of the campaign is the provision of Christmas dinners to families in need at Bowlee.

Gavin Vitler, from S. Wellens & Sons said: “Last year, we managed to feed more than 350 people. This time, we aim to reach even more.”

To further support their efforts, a charity calendar has been created featuring volunteers from across the country. The calendars are available for purchase from S. Wellens & Sons, Bowlee Community Centre, Studio 13 Middleton, and Middleton Masonic Hall.

Claire Parkinson, a funeral director with S. Wellens & Sons, was photographed handing donations to Georgina Jacques of Bowlee Community Centre.

Another image shows the organiser alongside Kathryn Karr from Bowlee showcasing the charity calendars.

The festive appeal includes exciting events for children, such as a free-to-visit Santa's grotto at Bowlee Community Centre and the Truffet Park Christmas light switch-on.

Additionally, a lantern parade will lead to the deer farm in Middleton, where children can feed reindeer and meet Santa at no cost.

For those wishing to contribute to the campaign, donations are welcome at S. Wellens & Sons, helping to bring Christmas cheer to those who need it most.

Proceeds will be split between Petrus and Bowlee to bolster their vital work.

Calendars can also be purchased online via this link.