Hartlepool youngsters make it a happy Christmas for elderly people

Published Wednesday, 20th December 2017

YOUNG people across Hartlepool have brought Christmas cheer to hundreds of elderly, housebound or isolated residents by sending them specially-designed festive cards.

The project was devised by Hartlepool Borough Council’s Home Library Service, which delivers books to more than 400 people throughout the year.

Fourteen schools took part – the Barnard Grove, Brougham, Fens, Hart, St Aidan’s, St Bega’s, St Cuthbert’s, St Joseph’s, St Peter’s Elwick, St Teresa’s, Stranton, Ward Jackson and West View primaries and St Hild’s secondary – together with the Twenty-Second Hartlepool Brownies. They all designed their own cards for collection and delivery by the scheme.

Some of the Christmas card designs

Some of the Christmas card designs

Heather Bellwood, the Council’s Children’s and Outreach Librarian, said: “Last year’s pilot scheme was a great success and we’re delighted that even more schools took part this year. A big ‘thank you’ to them and to the Brownies - their cards were really lovely.

“We give out the cards on the home library route closest to the school which has made the cards, to keep the connection very local.

“It’s a small gesture but it makes such a big difference. Everyone has said how wonderful it was to receive the cards – the smiles on their faces say it all – and they have given the cards pride of place in their homes.”

Anyone who feels they might be eligible for the Home Library Service – which is free - should contact Community Hub Central on (01429) 272905.