Come and See What a Gift Day was held at Better Gym, Glass Mill Leisure Centre in the borough of Lewisham on Friday 12th December.
A return to this location with new clothing, toys and gifts so that parents who celebrate the festive season can put away in advance. Also for those parents who have children's birthdays coming up soon could do the same. We also had a surprise guest, talented singer Lorna Marshall who played Rafiki in the Lion King at Disneyland, Paris.
With a massive thank you to our core donators with customers from Lidl for the toys and gifts. And for Sainsbury's Kidbrook, Dulwich, New Cross and Elephant & Castle for a wide variety of essential resources.
This event is all about responding to people with what do they need. All for free, just Come and See.
With a fantastic turnout that led to over 50 adults and children being impacted within households including pets too.
Attendees were able to register for more free events, and get access to supportive services. Local parents, individuals and gym visitors/members received access to free refreshments and an array of free resources to pick up. From non perishables, fruits, snacks, toiletries, baby essentials, pet food, new adult and children's clothing, toys and gifts. One person was riding their bike outside the venue, saw the set up through the large glass building and had to stop and ask what was going on. After seeing and now hearing that all the resources were free he was so glad to have Come and See. As this is just what he needed for him and his partner during a challenging month of circumstances. He left with two big bags packed absolutely full.
Further people could not believe all the items were free and brand new. The donation variety and amount available, especially all the extra supportive services available to help narrate a person out of their need and help get back on their feet. Both beneficiaries and visitors passing through to pick up information all thought this was an amazing and well needed initiative in the community. We even had a parent bring her child that attended the London Christmas fair in Kensington. Also parents from local schools including St Mary's Lewisham CE Primary school. For those who waited until the end were able to witness a special performance of the Disney movie song the Circle of Life.
A special thank to Matthew, the Manager for supporting the rebooking of the much needed event in the borough.
Grateful that we are able to host within a fitness, health and wellbeing environment to inspire households and people to make it part of their lifestyle.
The good news is that the left over donations went to our next event in Waddon.
The final outcome is the mutual agreement that the only way is up, and building back sustainably to help communities thrive is where it is going.
Be part of Come and See, it is free!