Honiton: Operation Rudolph reaches out to those in need this Christmas

Operation Rudolph, an initiative of Honiton based charity TRiP, will be helping local residents enjoy Christmas Day, offering a festive meal in Mackarness Hall, meat boxes, and gifts for children.

A volunteer from Operation Rudolph explains why the Christmas period brings particular challenges: "The Christmas period is particularly difficult for some people for lots of different reasons.

"Sometimes, however much we would like to, we can't always afford presents, or special food and drink.

"It may have been a bad year emotionally, physically or financially, and we can't manage any presents, festive food or drink.

"We wouldn't want anyone to spend Christmas Day alone, just as we wouldn't wish children to go without presents, or the family to go without a special meal because of financial circumstances."

As well as the cost, some people have lost family members, don't have time to prepare a meal or they may be disabled and unable to cook or decorate a home.

Operation Rudolph began in 2020. Due to the COVID restrictions there could not be a gathering in Mackarness Hall and instead they delivered Christmas dinners to 90 people.

They also distributed gifts for children and meat boxes for those that could not afford any special Christmas meal.

This year, there are three ways Operation Rudolph is helping people this Christmas.

Firstly, they are inviting people to Mackarness Hall to enjoy a Christmas meal with other people in a similar situation. TRiP is providing free transportation for those who need it, including for the disabled. The hall will be decorated and there will also be singing.

For those that do not feel comfortable coming to the hall or who are unable to leave the house, Operation Rudolph is offering free meal deliveries.

Secondly, Operation Rudolph is here to help those families who struggle to buy presents for their children. A large number of presents have already been donated and Operation Rudolph urge anyone in need to come forward.

Finally, Operation Rudolph recognises the high cost of a Christmas meal can prevent families from being able to afford to celebrate. This year they are offering Meat Boxes to families who cannot stretch their finances to buy festive food.

Further information can be found here or TRIP can be contacted on 01404 465 29.

Operation Rudolph are also looking for volunteers, both in the run up to Christmas and on the day itself. Any donations are also welcome.