Local charity, Purple Elephant, is supporting families with a range of treats this Christmas to help make sure Frome children don't miss out at this special time of year. The organisation has arranged a series of Christmas parties in warm, welcoming spaces - and Santa will be there to give each child an individually-selected present, plus there will be festive crafts and magical entertainment as well as a delicious, healthy meal at each party, for a total of around 100 people, provided by partner charity, Fair Frome. 

Whilst Christmas is a time of celebration for many, with over 20% of local area households eligible for free school meals, many families will struggle to meet basic needs before considering where the extra money for treats will come from. For many families, the greatest challenges come from parenting and caring for children with additional needs, so the charity's focus at this time of year is to ensure the whole family is involved, with adults joining in so that everyone gets to have fun together. 

Treats this year include free tickets for 143 people to see Christmas performances of 'Elf -The Musical' and 'Snow White' at the Merlin and Memorial theatres, plus a special performance from Wise Children at new theatre, The Lucky Chance.

Purple Elephant Trustee Helen Fielden explains 'We aim to bring a bit of joy and fun to families who need support at this time of year, as well as giving them practical help.' 

As part of Purple Elephant's ongoing partnership work, the charity is also adding to Fair Frome's Food At Five meal sessions and Community Lunches by running a kids' corner so the children play with toys, enjoy creative activities or even do their homework, accompanied by an adult support worker from Purple Elephant. 

Photos credits:  Steve Creffield.