DALE residents are to receive surprise gifts as part of a scheme to put a smile on people’s faces after a challenging 12 months.
The 12 Days of Community Kindness has been put together by Morrison’s community champion Gillian Robinson, who is hoping the surprises will help brighten the day of those who have been chosen.
She said: “It is a company idea and all the community champions are going to be doing it across the country.”
She said it was up to the store to draw up the list of recipients.
“It is aimed at trying to bring a smile to people’s faces. It’s been a tough year for everyone and I know a lot of people have found it difficult, especially those who live alone.
“Each of the gifts – and they could be chocolates, Poinsettias or flowers – will be left will have a note to say it’s from Morrison’s.”
In addition to the 12 Days of Community Kindness, Ms Robinson has organised presents for patients in Richardson Hospital.
Volunteers from the TCR Hub will also be receiving a little something for their hard work organising and delivering care packages throughout the pandemic.
She said: “The volunteers at The Hub have done an amazing job through the lockdown and we wanted to make sure they had a little something to know how appreciated the work is.
“We are also going to donate food packages to nurses and doctors at Darlington Memorial Hospital.
“I got to know one of the nurses who was working on the Covid ward, and it would be nice to give something back to them.”
Other groups will also benefit from gift hampers, though Ms Robinson didn’t wish to spoil the surprise by naming them.
Customers who have been receiving doorstep deliveries could also be in for a surprise delivery as well. She added: “We have built up quite a few customers who have been getting deliveries because they are vulnerable and we’re going to surprise a couple of them with some extra gifts.
“Customers in the store should also beware as we are going to be giving out gifts at the checkout, just to see their smiles.
“We also want to give gifts to those that have been cheerful throughout, that have helped put smiles on other people’s faces.”
A “Covid hero” is also in for a treat, said Ms Robinson.
“We are putting together a gift hamper for someone who has been an inspiration through the pandemic, someone who has really been part of the community and has helped bring the community together.
“The whole idea is show our appreciation and to get a bit of Christmas spirit going.”
