Key Takeaways
- The Napier Community Christmas event has been held for 15 years, providing a meal and company to those in need on Christmas Day.
- The event is made possible by the efforts of around 45 volunteers, who prepare and serve the meal, transport guests, and provide welcoming support.
- The event is sponsored by various organizations, including the Napier City Council and Pak‘nSave Tamatea, and is held at Park Island, which provides its facilities free of charge.
- The event aims to bring together people who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone, including the homeless, families who cannot afford a costly Christmas, and those in need of support.
- The event has a positive impact on the community, with some attendees going on to turn their lives around and become volunteers themselves.
Introduction to the Napier Community Christmas
The Napier Community Christmas is an annual event that has been held for 15 years, providing a meal and company to those in need on Christmas Day. The event was started by a couple who began helping in the kitchen at All Saints Church, and has since relocated to the Salvation Army premises in Greenmeadows and finally found a home at Park Island. The facilities at Park Island are made available free of charge, and the event is sponsored by a list of organizations, including the Napier City Council and Pak‘nSave Tamatea.
The Event in Action
This year’s event was attended by almost 150 guests, who were served by around 45 volunteers. The volunteers worked tirelessly to prepare and serve the meal, transport guests, and provide welcoming support. Some volunteers worked for two days to ensure that everything was ready for the big day. The jobs included greeting guests, driving to collect people without transport, and delivering meals to those who were unable to leave their homes. One volunteer, Elly, reported that she had delivered six meals to those in need. The event was a huge success, with guests enjoying a delicious meal and warm company on Christmas Day.
The Impact of the Event
The Napier Community Christmas has a profound impact on the community, bringing together people who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone. The event provides a sense of belonging and connection, and helps to break down social barriers. One attendee, Anaru Randell, had a particularly inspiring story to share. After graduating from a foundation resident at the new Napier homeless night shelter Te Ahuru Mowai, Anaru had gone on to get a job and find a house. He attributed his success to the support of Jim and Joanne, who had provided him with a "kick up the bum" when he needed it most. Anaru was at the event to give back and show his appreciation for the support he had received.
A Message of Hope
Addressing the guests, Jim Gaudin spoke about the importance of the event and the impact it has on the community. He acknowledged that things can be tough, and expressed his wish that every day could be like Christmas Day. He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the guests from the homeless shelter, saying that each one has a story to tell and encouraging others to take the time to listen and understand. New Napier Mayor Richard McGrath also spoke at the event, sharing his hopes for the council and the city in the new year. The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the need to support those in need.
Conclusion
The Napier Community Christmas is a shining example of the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together to support those in need. The event provides a sense of belonging and connection, and helps to break down social barriers. With the support of volunteers, sponsors, and the community, the event will continue to thrive and make a positive difference in the lives of those who attend. As the event comes to a close, the organizers and volunteers can take pride in the knowledge that they have made a real difference in the lives of others, and that the spirit of Christmas will live on throughout the year.