‘Mission Christmas’ spreads festive cheer in Glasgow

Four dedicated colleagues from Community Integrated Care’s Carlingwark House care home in Castle Douglas have worked tirelessly over the past 6 months to ensure that people in need would have a Christmas they would never forget.

To create this magical experience the team at Carlingwark House approached local businesses and the community asking them for their help. They received an overwhelming response – with warm clothes, toiletries and groceries all being donated to their cause. 

The enthusiastic team then spent a full afternoon cooking a delicious three-course meal at the Salvation Army which was greatly received by all. After dessert they enjoyed sharing the donated presents, gifting coats, hats, gloves, toiletries and food. And… the help didn’t stop there! Parcels were also delivered to the Rehabilitation Unit, spreading Christmas cheer to all.

This endeavour would not have been possible without the help and support from the community, including, but not limited to, local businesses in and around Castle Douglas, the major super-market chain Tesco and Springholm Primary School.

Amazingly, three generations of the Gordon family came together in the spirit of ‘Mission Christmas’; Helen Gordon, her daughter Yvonne, and granddaughter Kristie, who all bought beautiful gifts which were handed out personally to the Children of the Salvation Army.

This wonderful attempt to make the festive season the best yet for those in need, named ‘Mission Christmas’, was held in tribute by Helen in loving memory of her son George Gordon. Known by friends and family as Geo, Geo sadly passed away on the 30th November 2018. Helen believed Geo would have been proud of what was achieved, and her hope is for this lovely remembrance to carry on for years to come.