Posted on 18th Dec
The generosity of Newark and Sherwood residents means that more than 300 local people in need will be opening presents on Christmas morning.
The Palace Theatre’s gift donation scheme, Palace Presents, received a 35% increase in the number of gifts brought in by members of the public this year, with 309 wrapped parcels received over the past few weeks, compared to 229 last year.
Donations included new and unused gifts such as chocolates, biscuits, beauty and personal care items, toys and games, warm clothing accessories, covered hot water bottles, and useful household items for setting up a home.
The charities being supported this year were Newark Women’s Aid, Newark Emmaus Trust, and Beaumond House Hospice Care.
Upon collecting their presents, Lisa from Newark Women’s Aid said: “It’s an absolutely astounding, amazing quantity of gifts and presents for all the women and children in refuge, and it will also help women and children who are being supported through outreach in the community of too.
“I get to see the overwhelming joy it actually brings but the women often say that they can’t believe that people would give them gifts who don’t even know them; it means so much that people think about them when they don’t even see the results and who it’s going to. It’s truly wonderful so thank you.”
A large donation was received from pupils at Highfields School in Newark, and council staff also got involved with collections at Castle House.
Coun Rowan Cozens, deputy leader and portfolio holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at the council, said: “To have received so many gifts, given the rising cost of celebrating at this time of year, just shows how truly kind and selfless the people of Newark and Sherwood can be.
“I am full of pride in our incredible community and I know that these presents will make such a big difference to the people opening them at Christmas. I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”
The Palace Theatre will be continuing to spread festive joy until Tuesday, 31st December with its record-breaking panto Aladdin, a family adventure filled with laughter, music and dancing.
