Bankside pensioners get bags of loving gifts from community projects

By Regina Motalib

Love was certainly in the air for some isolated and vulnerable Bankside residents on Valentines Day.

Care packages containing gifts and edible treats were handed out to the delighted residents, living in the Bankside area of London Bridge.

The Valentines themed gift bags were filled with chocolate treats, nuts, seeds, candles, biscuits, jam, gravy and tea bags.

They were presented by Living Bankside to some of the most vulnerable people living in the local area.

This kindness initiative followed on from the ‘Christmas Cheer Care Packages Campaign’ collaboration by Living Bankside and sustainable Developer, Fabrix.

The Valentines care packages were warmly received by recipients who included isolated people living alone.

As well as elderly people, vulnerable local residents  struggling due to financial, health and mobility issues, were also surprised with a gift bag.

The living Bankside team and volunteers distributing the packages were delighted with the response.

Maureen Lynch, Patron of Living Bankside said: “It is important to remember all sections of our community and especially those who are vulnerable and living alone.

They should also have the warmth, love and joy which is associated with Valentine’s Day.

It was so heart-warming to see how such a simple act warmed the hearts of those who may have felt alone and unloved on this day.”

Amir Eden, chair of Living Bankside shared how moving it was to see the expressions of the recipients.

He said: “People were so happy to receive their Valentine’s Day packages. One resident was so moved, she started crying.”

He added: “On a day known for love, we at Living Bankside, wanted to remind people that they are in our minds and that they are not alone, they are not forgotten.

We care about them and they are a valuable and loved member of our neighbourhood.”

James Little, 78, a resident of Lucy Brown House – a residential care home for the elderly in Park Street- expressed his gratitude.

He said: “It’s so lovely to be remembered on Valentines Day. I haven’t had a cheerful Valentines Day for many years.

Living Bankside really made Valentine’s Day special for me.”

Dolores Poveda, 67 who also resides in Park Street received a package too.

She said: “I’m so thankful for the Valentines Package.

I’m even more happy to be thought of on a day which is also my birthday.”

 

PHOTO CREDIT: James Little – Care package recipient – supplied by Living Bankside