Everyone deserves to feel connected at Christmas, especially those in residential care, so we ask people to join us in making this season a little brighter by supporting our Christmas Card Appeal.

At Age Connects Morgannwg we believe everyone deserves to feel connected during the holiday season, especially those in residential care. Each year, we invite people across Wales (and beyond!) to join us in making this season brighter for older adults by participating in our Christmas Card Appeal. This simple yet impactful initiative spreads festive joy to those who may not have visitors, bringing genuine warmth and happiness to local care homes in Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, and Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Over the years, our work in care homes has revealed a sobering reality: many residents don’t receive regular visitors. This isolation can feel even more pronounced at Christmas - a season when connection is celebrated. Rhodri Poacher, one of our dedicated volunteers, saw an opportunity to lift the spirits of these residents through a heartfelt tradition: an annual Christmas card appeal. Since then, hundreds of cards have poured in each festive season, each one delivering a message of care and inclusion. A Christmas card might seem small, but its impact can be profound.

Last year’s campaign went beyond our expectations, reaching more than 100,000 people on social media within the first ten days. The response was incredible, with schools, community groups, and individuals from all corners of Wales, England, and even countries as far away as Japan and Singapore stepping up to support the appeal. When our volunteers delivered the cards, they were met with joy from residents and staff alike.

Helen Davies, ACM’s Volunteer Manager, coordinated last year’s campaign with Rhodri and was moved by the response: “The success of our campaign in 2023 surpassed all expectations and led to real joy for hundreds of people living in local care homes. We just hope we can deliver the same result this year.”

If you’d like to help make someone’s holiday brighter, getting involved in our 2024 Christmas Card Appeal is easy. Start by choosing a festive card, then write a heartfelt note inside - something that would make the recipient feel remembered and appreciated. Once your card is ready, simply mail it to ACM’s Cynon Linc head office in Aberdare, or drop it off at one of our collection points in Aberdare, Merthyr, or Pontyclun. Just click here for the addresses.

Our 2024 Christmas Card Appeal will be open until December 13th. We’ll be sharing updates and stories from the campaign on our social media channels, so follow along and see the incredible impact your cards make! By taking part in this simple act of kindness, you’re spreading Christmas cheer to those who need it most. Thank you for helping us make this season one of connection, warmth, and joy.