We are calling on the community to help spread festive cheer this Christmas by taking part in our Christmas Card Appeal, which brings messages of kindness and joy to local care home residents.
Now in its fourth year, the appeal invites people to write Christmas cards filled with warm wishes, which are then hand-delivered by volunteers to residents in care homes across Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“A simple card can make a huge difference,” said volunteer Rhodri Poacher, who first came up with the idea for the appeal. “For many residents who don’t receive regular visits, knowing that someone has taken the time to think of them can really brighten their Christmas.”
How to Get Involved in 2025
Taking part in this year’s Christmas Card Appeal is easy. Simply write a Christmas card with your own festive message - you can include a few words about yourself if you wish but no identifying information please - and send or drop it off at the charity’s Cynon Linc head office in Aberdare, or at one of four local collection points. Full details can be found on our appeal page. Cards should arrive by 5 December to give volunteers plenty of time to deliver them to care homes before Christmas.
If you have any links with children or young people, or belong to an arts and crafts group, please consider making the cards and decorating them - these are always popular and bring a smile to the faces of residents!
If you want to give a little more, we are also collecting shoebox gifts to hand out to residents who have few or no visitors at Christmas time. For more information on what to include and how to drop off, please contact [email protected]
Making a Difference
The appeal is just one of several initiatives run by Age Connects Morgannwg to help reduce loneliness and isolation among older people. Other projects include a popular pen pal scheme and a befriending programme, which both provide meaningful connection and regular contact for those who may otherwise spend much of their time alone.
Neuroscientist Dr Lynda Shaw explains why gestures like this matter: “Receiving a card can lift self-esteem, ease loneliness, and even help protect against the early stages of depression. It’s a powerful act of connection.”
This Christmas, take a few minutes to write a card - and help bring warmth, smiles, and festive cheer to someone who needs it most.