ellenor brings festive fun to families

Dartford football club opened its doors on Monday 21 December to host a fun filled Christmas party for children and families being cared for by ellenor.

The party which ran from 12.30-3.30pm, and is held every year, was attended by 82 children and their families, and featured games and festive themed activities including face painting, arts and crafts, and a lucky dip.

Some of the children also enjoyed a sensory area provided by the nurses which allowed children with more severe disabilities to also take part and enjoy the event.

Father Christmas was joined by staff from Heart Radio who donated soft toys and gifts from The Giving Tree in Bluewater, so that each child could receive a special gift, and families also enjoyed a pantomime performance by the Christmas for Kids Theatre Company who specialise in theatre for children with special needs.

Fresh from his success in Saturday's league match against Whitehawk, The Darts striker Andy Pugh also popped in along with Goal Keeper Deren Ibrahim to chat with the children and to give away signed shirts.

The event, which was organised by ellenor was kindly supported by about 15 volunteers from ellenor supporters Blackrock and Berkley Homes who helped set up, serve drinks and clear away afterwards.

Rebecca Scalzo, Head of Children’s Hospice Care at ellenor. Said “We are so grateful to everyone that made this year’s ellenor Childrens Christmas party such a huge success and help contribute to such an amazing atmosphere.  From those that served the tea, to those that gave out gifts, to those that performed, we are so grateful.Seeing all the smiles and laughter on the faces of the kids and their families was so worthwhile.”

After reading the feedback from families, Rebecca went to say “The impact that these events has on families, is huge.They provide an opportunity for families to really relax and let their hair down, in a safe and supported environment, as well as have the opportunity for valuable peer support and to celebrate Christmas as a family.Thank you to all involved.”