As we get close to Christmas, it's heartwarming to witness the power of community collaboration in making a tangible difference. This week, I had the privilege of joining forces with SES Water and Old Lodge Lane Baptist Church in two remarkable initiatives aimed at brightening the festive season for those in need.
My collaboration with SES Water has been both extensive and impactful this year. From addressing significant challenges like the colossal water main burst in April supporting a visit to Kenley to discuss the burst with residents, arranging for them to attend the Purley Food Stop to offer 50% discount on water bills to customers and of course working closely with them to ensure that the closure of the A22 was as undisruptive as possible. I hope to be able to work on further community initiative with them during 2024.
On Monday, I had the pleasure of spending the day with the SES Water team, actively participating in packing and delivering Christmas hampers. The opportunity to nominate deserving Kenley residents, who have faced hardships this year, was particularly welcome. As we look forward to 2024, I am eager and hopeful for more collaborative initiatives that foster community growth and resilience.
The relentless efforts of the Purley Food Stop team have been nothing short of inspiring. Their dedication to ensuring that 120 families in Kenley and its vicinity receive Christmas dinner hampers is a testament to their unwavering commitment to community welfare. The meticulous planning, fundraising, and logistics management involved in this initiative are commendable, and I feel privileged to have been a small part of this transformative endeavour.
Both of these initiatives serve as poignant reminders of the inherent goodness within our communities and the transformative power of coming together for a shared purpose. As the year draws to a close, let us carry forward this spirit of generosity, compassion, and unity into the New Year, creating lasting ripples of positive change in our communities.
Wishing everyone a joyous and fulfilling holiday season!