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Aspire Ryde Launches Christmas Appeal For Vulnerable Islanders

Aspire Ryde

Charity Aspire Ryde has launched its Christmas Appeal to help vulnerable Islanders this Christmas.

This festive season, it will focus on those experiencing isolation and loneliness and families in financial distress.

The charity will provide:

  • Bags of warmth to older people containing, blankets, hats, scarves, thermal mugs and other items
  • Christmas hampers for families containing dried and tinned food, toiletries and toys from the Isle of Wight radio Toy Appeal 
  • Chef-prepared frozen Christmas dinners delivered to isolated people on Christmas day and supported by phone befriending

Trevor Nicholas, Aspire Ryde Chief Executive said: 

“This year has been really tough on everyone but it has been disproportionately difficult for those who are isolated and vulnerable and for those in financial hardship.  We want to encourage our community to come together as much as possible and to continue to help each other as we have seen happening throughout the year.  People can get involved by volunteering time to help, donating food, toiletries and toys and through giving money towards our bags of warmth and Christmas day meals.”

Bags, Hampers and meals will be distributed throughout Ryde and the surrounding communities in the week leading up to Christmas.  

Mayor of Ryde and Aspire Patron, Michael Lilley said: 

“This is a great initiative to look out for those people that have been hardest hit by the events of the last year.  We have a wonderful community in Ryde and I know that people will do their best to make sure that no one feels left out over the festive period”.

Anyone wishing to volunteer their time or donate in other ways should contact Aspire Ryde on 01983 716020. (10am – 4pm weekdays).

Alternatively, you can visit their Facebook Page or email [email protected]

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