Come and See What a Gift Day was held at Better Gym, Waddon Leisure Centre in the borough of Croydon on Tuesday 16th December.
Returning to this location with more 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.
With a massive thank you to our core donators with customers from Lidl for the toys and gifts. And for Tina at Morrison's Waddon, Sainsbury's 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 an incredible turnout that led to over 100 adults and children being impacted within households including pets too. Thanks to the local referrals from Katie at Home Start Croydon, Maxine at Croydon DWP, the receptionists and teams at Harris Primary School and Aerodrome Academy.
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.
Parents especially 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.
A special thank to Luke the branch manager and Harry assistant manager for managing the rebooking of our event. Also to the Better Gyms team for helping with the onsite support and set up.
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 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!