Charity Delivers Christmas Hampers to Isolated Individuals

A Devon resident has commended a local charity after receiving a “wonderful hamper” for Christmas. Cliff Eastman, 96, has resided alone in Plymouth since his partner’s death four years ago and acknowledged experiencing loneliness. The Elder Tree Befriending charity currently provides support to over 1,700 individuals aged 50 and above in Plymouth and has distributed hundreds of Christmas hampers since the pandemic began. “I’ll never be able to thank them enough for this wonderful hamper that they’ve sent to me,” Mr Eastman stated. He further added: “I get a bit lonely at times and I’ll be on my own for Christmas but I’m not too worried about that because I’ve now got this beautiful parcel.” “As an old person of 96, I’ve never had such a lovely hamper in my whole life.” “When the gentleman brought it through the door I just could not believe what was in there. “I’ve never had such satisfaction in my life, it was absolutely wonderful.” Mr Eastman specified that his hamper was filled with fruit, tins of soup, biscuits, chocolate, cheese, and tea, which he characterized as “beautiful”. Discussing his partner’s passing, he remarked: “It’s been quite difficult without the company.” “I looked after her until she died because she was pretty ill so I really looked after her to the best of my ability.” Louise Barnes, CEO of the charity, indicated that the hamper deliveries commenced during the pandemic. She explained that they recognized many of their most isolated and housebound beneficiaries would be spending Christmas alone. “It was a real success with amazing but unexpected feedback from beneficiaries so we decided to do it every year from then on.” She also noted: “This year we have delivered 160 hampers across the city.” Betty Bloomfield has also been a recipient of a hamper from the charity. “It brightens you up when you see it coming and the people who deliver it are so lovely,” the 95-year-old commented. She concluded: “I do really appreciate the Elder Tree people, they’re lovely, all of them.” For updates, follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.