International Kindness Week... The Gift of Giving - A New Tradition!

“Acts of kindness start a ripple of change that can transform the lives of children, families and entire communities.”- Save the Children, 2023.

World Kindness Day is celebrated this year on 13^th November, there are many ways to celebrate this, big or small. If you’d like to make a meaningful impact in your family and community’s lives, why not try the reverse advent calendar.

The festive period is all about traditions and an advent calendars is a much loved tradition in the lead up to Christmas. If you’re looking for a new family tradition, that’s not only fun but teaches your family the importance of helping others, and incorporates the NHS initiative of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing of giving at Christmas.

Christmas is a busy time of year for many organisations. There is an estimated 45% increase in demand for emergency food parcels in the two weeks leading up to Christmas each year. This is where a reverse advent calendar can help and becoming increasingly popular- especially due to the cost of living crisis.

What is the reverse advent calendar?

Most advent calendars open a door or window to reveal a small chocolate or gift on each day, however, the reverse advent turns this on its head. The concept is simple: the reverse advent calendar works differently by using the late days in November or early December to add one non-perishable food item or hygiene product a day ready to give to a local foodbank or charity shop in time for Christmas week. At the end of advent, the box will result in a collection of 24 goods, this means instead of opening something for advent, you are giving something back to the community every day.

For a list of local food banks please visit The Trussell Trust

Christmas Toybox appeal

Carmarthenshire County Council has launched its annual Christmas Toybox Appeal which helps hundreds of children with families who can’t afford to buy toys or gifts. If you would like more information, please click here.

Article submitted by: Health & Wellbeing Team