South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP) is proud to be supporting a scheme that aims to combat loneliness and keep people safe this winter.
 
Be A Santa is a gift giving scheme that aims to positively impact the lives of older people in the community who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas.

The Safer Roads team has provided items including snoods, shopping bags, reflective key rings and bag straps to be donated to the scheme as well as to Home Instead’s clients and CAREGivers.


 
“When we heard about the scheme, we really wanted to do something to help out,” said Joanne Wehrle, manager of SYSRP.
 
“We know there are people on their own at Christmas time and we are so grateful to all the organisations out there trying to spread joy and happiness at what can be a very difficult time.
 
“By donating items from our Be Bright Be Seen resource bank, we hope it will help show someone that they are being thought about but also help staff who are out and about during the darker months.”
 
Be A Santa has been organised locally by Home Instead Sheffield and Barnsley, a national home care provider.
 
Since being introduced in North America in 2006 and then in the UK in 2012, the scheme has continued to grow providing millions of gifts to older people at Christmas.

Megan Stancill, Home Instead’s Client Services Manager, said: “Be A Santa is a lovely gift giving scheme. It’s a way for us to give back to our local community and bring some joy and festive cheer to those who may be alone around Christmas time.

“Loneliness and isolation can have a huge impact on the lives of older adults and these feelings can be exacerbated at this time of the year, and especially over the festive period.  In our efforts, we hope we can make a small difference”

To get involved or to donate items including confectionery, toiletries, blankets, gloves, scarves, mugs and hot water bottles, please contact Home Instead on 0114 246 9666.