Heart of Midlothian’s Big Hearts charity will host a Christmas dinner for some of the most isolated and vulnerable people in the community on Christmas Day.
A hundred guests are expected to make their way to Tynecastle Park, where they will enjoy a free festive meal and good company in the Main Stand’s executive lounge.
Big Hearts, the official charity of the Club and lead partner in ‘Edinburgh Cheer’ – a unique city-wide partnership with NHS Lothian, Hibernian and the Scottish Government – has been working closely with other organisations across the city to welcome those who would otherwise be spending the day alone, with a primary focus on people aged over 65s.
Two in 5 older people have TV as their main form of company over Christmas, making them one of the key-groups affected by social isolation at this time of the year.
Big Hearts’ Christmas day dinner at Tynecastle Park is supported by Edinburgh Cheer partners Tesco, who will be providing food supplies and festive hampers, and Central Taxis, who are transporting guests to and from the event. The initiative is also delivered as part of the Scottish Professional Football League Trust ‘Festive Friends’ programme.
Ann Budge, Heart of Midlothian FC Chairwoman and Big Hearts Trustee said: “The festive season is a happy time for most of us, but it can be challenging for individuals and families affected by social isolation.
“This Christmas Day we are opening our stadium to ensure those most vulnerable in the community get to enjoy a festive meal and make great memories of this special day at Tynecastle Park. It marks our second year leading ‘Edinburgh Cheer’ with Hibernian and Tesco and I would like to thank Big Hearts for their hard work in making this partnership a great success.”
Craig Wilson, Big Hearts General Manager said: “Big Hearts supports socially isolated people all year long and we know that Christmas is one of the most difficult times.
“Following the positive outcomes from last year, we are delighted to host our second Christmas day dinner at Heart of Midlothian with the invaluable contribution from our Edinburgh Cheer partner Tesco and the SPFL Trust.
“As a charity it’s fantastic to be in the position to offer so many vulnerable people the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in a festive environment, and particularly welcome individuals over 65 who are living alone or away from family.”
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