The festive season is a time for giving, togetherness, and spreading joy—and this year, our Christmas market events at Alex Wood House and Langdon House in Cambridge, as well as Ashlynn Grange in Peterborough, have captured that spirit beautifully.
With festive fun for the whole family, these events brought our family together with the local community to raise much-needed funds for CPSL (Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and South Lincolnshire) Mind, a charity dedicated to supporting mental health and positive wellbeing.
Each of our homes offered something special to mark the season. At Alex Wood House in Arbury, Cambridge, visitors were treated to the magical sight of real reindeer, along with mulled wine, mince pies, carol singing, and a selection of beautiful gifts and decorations to buy.
Father Christmas himself even stopped by to spread some cheer. Residents at all three homes worked hard during arts and crafts sessions to create handmade items for sale, adding a personal touch to the festivities.
Alex Wood House General Manager Julie Fuller, who dressed as an elf herself to take part in the fun, shared her thoughts on the day:
“It was a truly magical day at Alex Wood House with a visit from Father Christmas and his reindeer for our Christmas Fayre. The event attracted many people from the local community and had the home buzzing.
“It has truly put us all in the Christmas spirit. Our residents loved creating items to sell, and knowing their work supported CPSL MIND gave them a great sense of purpose and wellbeing.”
At Langdon House and Ashlynn Grange, the festive spirit continued with Christmas markets brimming with seasonal delights. From festive treats to community camaraderie, these events have been a wonderful way to welcome everyone into our homes and give back to a cause that means so much to us.
At Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and South Lincolnshire Mind, the focus is on providing vital support to local people facing mental health challenges. We still have to have a total count up of what was raised at the three events but the funds will help ensure that CPSL MIND can continue its incredible work, making a real difference in our communities.
Athena Customer Relationship Manager Amber Christou highlighted the impact of the events, saying: “The winter fayres have been truly magical, bringing together our residents and the local community in a wonderful celebration of Christmas spirit and togetherness.
“Raising funds for MIND has been an incredible achievement, and we are so proud to support this vital charity, especially during the festive season. It has been heartwarming to see the joy and generosity of everyone involved, making these fayres a truly special highlight of the year.”
The Christmas season reminds us all of the importance of thinking of others. By joining forces to raise money for a vital cause, we’ve not only helped make a difference for those experiencing mental health challenges but also created magical memories for everyone involved.
As we reflect on the success of these events, we look forward to continuing a connection with CPSL MIND throughout the year. Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and supported—together, we’ve shown the true spirit of Christmas!