Festive lunch brings Christmas cheer for our young people in care
Care leavers from across Kirklees enjoyed a festive lunch designed to ensure that no young person in our community had to spend Christmas Day alone.
For many children and young people who are in care, Christmas can be a difficult reminder of the family support they may not have. This event provides a joyful, comforting space where they can share a meal, relax and celebrate the holiday surrounded by people who care.
Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children’s Services, said:
“No young person should feel forgotten at Christmas. Our Christmas Day celebration shows what can happen when our partners, local organisations, volunteers and businesses come together with compassion and purpose. I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved and deeply moved by the kindness shown to our care leavers.”
The initiative was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Huddersfield Town Foundation who, alongside Gold from the Stone, secured the funding to enable the lunch to take place.
Waitrose and Partners donated festive hampers for every attendee to take home. Adding an extra touch of warmth and kindness, Meltham Quilters provided beautifully handmade quilts for each care leaver, a personal gift to mark the day and remind them they are valued.
A special thank you to the dedicated volunteers who gave their time to help run the event, greeting guests, serving lunch and supporting a variety of fun games and activities throughout the afternoon. Young people were free to get involved or simply enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
The Christmas Lunch stands as a testament to the strength of community spirit in Kirklees, and to the powerful difference that compassion, partnership and kindness can make in the lives of young people.
Could you offer support?
The Christmas Lunch is supported through a charitable trust which remains open to donations so that young people in care across Kirklees can continue to be celebrated into 2026 and beyond. Donations can be made at the Huddersfield Town Foundation website.