Chiswick's Pensioners Celebrate Christmas Day In Style

Thanks to Pauline and Leanne Hart and their team of volunteers

Related Links

‘Miracle’ On ChiswickW4 Forum

Pensioners Alone at Christmas

Participate

Contact Pauline Hart on PAAChiswick@aol.com or 020 8994 3648

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter

Comment on this story on the

This Christmas saw Pensioners Alone Chiswick Group celebrate their twenty-sixth party in customary style.

Still at the helm, founder Pauline Hart said: "I would like to say a very special thank you to so many people who have helped us this year and ChiswickW4 for the publicity which attracted so many volunteers who helped us. Firstly on Christmas Eve volunteers to prepare everything for the party, and secondly all the volunteers who came to help us on Christmas Day. We had lots of car drivers, new chef and people helping in the kitchen the food was wonderful.

"It was very special to see so many volunteers talking and helping the guests. As the guests were leaving many came to tell me how much they had enjoyed the day. We were able to send everyone home with presents which was made possible by all the donations we were blessed with from so many people who live and work in Chiswick."

She added: "I wish you all a Wonderful 2011 and look forward to seeing many of you next year, Thank You."

Chiswick Councillor John Todd, a regular volunteer at the party said: "I saw a slick, caring and warm occasion with numerous volunteers ensuring that guests had a first class meal, a gift and accompanying entertainment. Such a fantastic commitment by the organisers."

Gordon McDonald posted on the ChiswickW4.com forum: "It was fantastic. Everybody ate well, were made very comfortable and had a good gossip with some new faces. Lots of children came along and chatted with the guests and added a special touch to the day. Great food. Looking forward to next year."

Pauline Hart, Chairperson and founder of Pensioners Alone At Christmas (PAAC) found many senior citizens were alone because their families had moved away making it a very lonely time of year. "We cook a wonderful traditional Christmas dinner for our guests and volunteers and give all guests presents to take home. The guests enjoy singing songs and getting up to have a dance as we hire a professional entertainer," Pauline's daughter Leanne Hart told ChiswickW4.com. "Each Christmas we meet many new volunteers and guests to enjoy the day with. This year we are actively seeking new volunteers who want to do something different on Christmas Day."

PAAC is an independently-run registered charity, funded by donations from local businesses such as Singapore Airlines and Positive Thinking, and organised by volunteers. If you would like to help raise funds or make any donations, please contact them via telephone: 0208 994 3648 or email: PAAChiswick@aol.com.

December 28, 2010