Warm Welcome Wednesday is a local 'club' that was started in November 2022. It was set up by a group of people at St Leonards to help the older residents of the village, to save on their energy bills and to provide a warm and welcoming environment.
Maureen McCreadie (who I met) was one of those people. We had a pleasant conversation and she told me all about it.
It is held every week in St Leonards Church from 10:30-12 and is open to all. You do not need to be a church member, so do call in for a social 'chit chat'.
Being social is so very important the older we get. It alleviates the loneliness that a lot of people can feel, so being able to get out once a week (or more) meet friends, have a chat etc. can do wonders for ones wellbeing and state of mind.
If you are able to walk there the gentle and regular exercise could be an added bonus!. You might want to start a little walking group, whereby a few of you meet up and walk there together (mobility permitting of course).
As well as the conversation that goes on, there are also some of the group who knit blankets. Strips are produced then sewn together (by Jackie and Ann). If your capabilities allow you could knit a whole blanket. They wanted a charity to donate these to and after looking around found The Gatehouse (an Oxford charity which helps the homeless). These are collected from central Eynsham every 6 weeks along with homemade sandwiches and cakes.
They have 8x volunteers (on a rota basis which Maureen produces) and have (on average) 35-40 people attend on a regular basis.
The team arrive at 10am. 2-4 people set up/take down the tables. 2-3 people lay the tables. 1 x person does the refreshments with 2 x people to host. It is a well tuned system that works well.
There is no charge for the refreshments. If you wish to make a donation you can do so, but please do not feel obliged as this is not mandatory.
Once the session is over you may be surprised that everyone (or who wishes to) walks to The Jolly Sportsman for a bite of lunch. There is a 'meal deal' available whereby you can order 2 x courses and a free drink for £8.00. Who wouldn't want to go!