'I wanted to help the lonely, vulnerable, or anyone who might not get out at Christmas': Kind Wordsley worshipper puts on party to give back
A Wordsley woman put on a festive community gathering at the church in which she was recently confirmed.
Businesswoman and entrepreneur Kelly Sheridan has long been a member of the congregation at Holy Trinity Church and decided to do something to "help people who may not have had the Christmas that others have".
More than 50 people who were lonely, struggling financially or just keen to meet others enjoyed a "fantastic day" on Saturday (December 27) at the church hall - they ranged in ages from two to 90.
All enjoyed a hot meal, free gifts for children, festive music and what Kelly said was a chance to "make new memories together".
The 36-year-old, who is considerably younger than some of the worshippers at the High Street church, said she wanted to 'give back' to the community and particularly those who were vulnerable or lonely.
She said: "I was confirmed here at the end of November and I thought it was a great place to hold the event, which was staffed by volunteers and attended by more than 50 people on the day,.
"The idea was to created a space where people can relax, feel valued, enjoy a meal and be part of a caring community, no questions asked and no barriers to attending.
"It was particularly aimed at anyone feeling lonely at this time of year and low-income families - I wanted them to be able to enjoy the type of Christmas I and many other people are lucky enough to be able to."
Kelly, who runs a media talent agency, even had the idea of creating a 'table of 12' for people to sit around and eat their meals where people would deliberately be mixed up and could make new friends.
She said: "I know that worked because I could see people getting to know each other which was wonderful - everyone was very appreciative and we had a lot of fun on the day.
"I would like to thank the volunteers, the church for opening its doors and all who attended - it is never easy to come forward and they did."
Kelly said she may organise another event at Easter, or next Christmas.
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