Christmas is always a busy time for us and this year was no different. This year the party days were held over two days with the clients and their children attending on their specific days. The clients spent their morning playing bingo and pass the parcel which was a new experience for many of them. They were also given the opportunity to buy raffle tickets and everyone won at least one prize. The children’s main presents, the clients present and also a hamper for each of the families of goodies donated by Nadia Magdenovic and Lianne from the Mears Group, presents from a family member of two of our trustees and staff at Imjim Barracks were given out before lunch.
Lunch as usual was amazing! A turkey roast with all the trimmings was expertly cooked by Katren and served to the clients by Lucy (Centre Manager) and Gail (Family Support).
The children were able to attend a special party day during the festive period. We held two days for the parties to ensure all were catered for. On both days we had similar arts and crafts set up to entice their imaginations. Children came dressed in their best party attire, with some preferring to wear our dressing up to join in the fun. The staff shared lots of music and dancing along with face painting to help everyone feel a part of the festivities. There were lots of activity stations with calendars, Christmas cards, biscuit decorating and cake making set up around the rooms, with lots of stimulating physical activities that kept everyone involved and entertained.
The children really did enjoy their Christmas roast dinner, they ate everything! Light Christmas music in the background, happy laughs and a full team of wonderful staff to help them enjoy their experience, we are certain it will now become one of their Family Haven best memories.
After lunch the clients collected their child one by one and took them to see Santa in his grotto where the Elf and Santa really did make them feel very special. The children seemed to enjoy this experience and were very pleased with the gift they received from Santa.
After such a busy day the families were ready to go home, laden with armfuls of presents and tired happy children.