A Portadown charity working around the clock to provide Christmas hampers to “struggling” families – living “in conditions you would not believe unless you’ve seen it yourself” – have shared the “reality behind the scenes”.
For almost 15 years, dedicated non-prejudiced organisation, Portadown Cares have been “giving the community a hug” – their motto – through the promotion of social integration, increase in education, improvement of life skills and decreased social isolation.
And now, as they prepare to bring hampers and toys to those most in need, they have taken the time to stop and “shine a light on the people who truly hold Portadown Cares together”… their dedicated volunteers and committee members.
They added: “From early December right through to the 19th, these incredible men, women, and children give up hours upon hours of their time — often until 9pm, 10pm or later — despite having families, jobs, and their own Christmas to sort.
“And yet… they never complain. They just show up, night after night, and get on with it.”
They say, the reality “behind the scenes” is that their hamper and toy-packing system is “far from ideal” but they are “incredibly grateful to have it”.
After moving premises earlier this year, the charity appealed publicly for a new space to prepare for the festive period.
Thankfully, they have secured a unit with the help of High Street Mall but, they say it is “very cold” with no heating and “limited electricity”.
Thankfully temporary lighting has been kindly provided by Brian Cornett and their team continue to “graft away”.
Christmas can be one of the hardest times of year for people, financially and emotionally. And, the charity say the applications they receive year-on-year for support are “heartbreaking”.
They explain that around 90% of their applications come from social workers, health visitors, GPs, schools, teachers and other support agencies, with the remaining 10% coming “bravely” from individuals directly self-nominating.
They say those who do come forward to ask for support, always provide a “letter or verification from a professional”, but add that they have been doing this work for a long time and “know the difference between someone struggling… and someone trying their luck”.
Those asking for support are commonly facing serious illness, bereavement, domestic violence, severe financial hardship, pensioners choosing between heating and food, children living in extremely difficult conditions and homes without heat, furniture or electricity, says the charity.
They are “local people, right here in Portadown”.
The Chairperson of Portadown Cares said: “As Chairperson of Portadown Cares, I couldn’t be more thankful or more proud of every single person who gives up their time — completely free of charge — to help others in our community.
“This is exactly why I joined Portadown Cares all those years ago — because it was always about local people helping local people. That will always be my ethos.
“To every volunteer and committee member who lifts, carries, sorts, packs, wraps, checks, plans, and helps in any way: Thank-you.
“We simply could not do this without you.”
And there is still time to get involved and make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people this Christmas.
“We know it’s a busy time of year, but there is still time for local businesses to support this year’s hamper and toy appeal,” said Portadown Cares.
“The families we help — and the community around you — would deeply appreciate your support, and so would we. It doesn’t have to be thousands.”
You can contact Portadown Cares by email at: info@portadowncares.org or send a message via their Facebook page.
