Christmas Community Local News

Busy elves in the ‘Bridge Café’ creating magic this Christmas

Emma and Danni, who set the ‘pay it forward’ trend in Andover this September have been busy behind the scenes making up Christmas hampers and Children’s stocking fillers for Andover local families who may be struggling this December.

Danni said the ‘pay it forward’ idea has been phenomenal. The scheme allows people to pay for a stranger to have a hot meal and drink. We have been able to provide meals to people that otherwise wouldn’t eat, packed lunches to children of families that have felt the crunch from Covid, provided the homeless with sleeping bags, tents and camping equipment. Anyone can access the pay it forward vouchers at the counter in the café.” Danni went on to say “if it wasn’t for all of you amazing beings, we wouldn’t be able to make this happen. I would personally thank each and every one of you that has donated towards our projects. Every small contribution has collectively impacted the lives of many others less fortunate”

As part of the ‘pay it forward’ project, which proved to be very successful, the sisters have been busy fundraising to make up the hampers and buy children’s gifts for those who ‘may need a bit of help and Christmas cheer’

Emma said ” Christmas is a stressful time of year for lots of us, this year has been especially difficult and there will be lots of people really anxious about Christmas and how they will afford to fill the cupboards and put gifts under the tree for their children.

“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of the lovely people of Andover and beyond. We realise there are many people struggling at the moment due to being isolated, loss of employment and health issues. This year has been a roller coaster ride for all of us and we would like to give back to the community who have supported us in our many ventures.

“We would like to help anyone who may be struggling this Christmas with a hamper of food or small gifts for children.”

If you or anyone you know are in need of help this Christmas head down to ‘The Bridge Cafe’ on Bridge street, Andover.

Monday -Friday 9.30am -2pm

Alternatively you can contact them on their Facebook page HERE

If you would like to donate to the Christmas hamper appeal they are collecting non perishable food items, gift sets and childrens items. These can be dropped off at the bridge cafe or contact them to arrange collection.

Emma added “We would like to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and support this year. We hope you all have a wonderful and safe Christmas.”