We were once again bowled over by the kindness of Blantyre’s very own Gail Gillon.
Gail owns ‘Jollytots & Cookies Play Cafe’ in Uddingston. The cafe boss who lives in Blantyre has been serving up helpings of Christmas Day cheer to dozens of vulnerable and lonely locals for the past four years. Gail has been throwing open her doors to those in need of company during the festive season and indeed going a step further on Christmas Day by putting on a FREE Christmas dinner and party for those in need, including people who are homeless.
Such kindness is indeed rare. As well as turkey with all the trimmings, her guests are treated to live music, haircuts, makeovers, a visit from Santa and a hamper full of gifts. Inspired by her own difficult childhood and helped by an army of volunteers, the grandmother of two has become Mrs Claus to the vulnerable in the community.
A former mental health nurse Gail, who has five siblings, knows what it is like to face poverty at Christmas time. Her first festive get together in 2015 was attended by 50 people after her appeal on social media was shared 6000 times and her numbers are growing by the year.
Her efforts ensure warmth, friendliness, comfort, food, drink and gifts for many, many people this Christmas, at a time when they would otherwise perhaps be feeling lonely or down.
Donation
Inspired, we spared no hesitation to help this year by meeting up with her today, Saturday 2 November 2019 outside the cafe and handed over £160 in cash, helping towards her forthcoming Christmas endeavours. The donation was made possible due to the kindness of Blantyre Telegraph readers and this month, in particular, an extremely generous anonymous donation.
Gail told us, “Thank you sincerely. That was unexpected and appreciated!” She is indeed, a Christmas Angel!
Further cash donations will be announced in the coming days.
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