Once again The Salvation Army in Chatham has been able to help meet the needs of many families who will be struggling this Christmas.

Organiser Marjory Hudson with a friend

200 families, including 372 children, have been delivered a parcel comprising food and/or gifts so that their Christmas may be enjoyed a little more. Marjory Hudson, with an energetic team of helpers, made light work of this enormous task which was substantially completed within one week. Our thanks are due to all team members and drivers who give their time and effort so willingly. Thanks are especially due to Marjory who is retiring from this responsibility after 5 years of service to the Medway community. She will be a hard act to follow!

We also wish to thank all those who so kindly donated new toys and gifts to make this mission possible. Contributions were received from the following (if we have omitted anyone please let us know so that we can acknowledge your generosity):

Waldersalde Baptist Church
Emmaus Church Centre
Christchurch, Luton
St Stephen’s Church
St Peter’s Church
St Mark’s Church
The Salvation Army, Chatham
The Salvation Army, Strood
Balfour School
Glencoe School
Rochester Mathematical School
Blythswood Care
Asda Superstore
British Transport Police
Staff at G4S Cash Solutions (UK) ltd
Mr & Mrs Ellis (Rush Close) and neighbours
Officers at HM Prison Belmarsh

We also thank Medway Council for the parking fine served whilst the goods were being unloaded.

Finally we wish all our readers, including Medway Council, a very happy Christmas. Don’t forget to visit us tomorrow for Major Drew McCombe’s Christmas message.