SLEIGH bells will be well and truly ringing this winter at a one-of-a-kind play café that caters for children and adults – and opens its doors every Christmas Day to feed people in need.
That’s because Pacific Building have stepped in to help the owner of Jolly Tots & Cookies, Gail Gillon, keep the festive fun flowing.
Gail had a bright red wooden sleigh custom made for an event she was hosting for children with special needs at JT&C in Uddingston, Lanarkshire.
However, she suddenly realised the hard surfaces and sharp edges could present a danger to the little ones’ heads and bodies.
So through the organisation’s Facebook Page, she appealed for help to have the sledge fitted with soft protection while keeping it looking festive.
Pacific spotted the post and stepped into help, in conjunction with our friends at specialist upholstery firm Lecs, based in Larbert, Stirlingshire.
Gail said: “The new padded sleigh is just wonderful and will be perfect for the children’s party.
“I can’t thank the team at Pacific and Lecs enough for the care and consideration they put into this. Speaking as someone who just loves helping others, I really appreciate it when someone steps up to the mark to help my team and me at Jolly Tots & Cookies.”
Douglas Brown, Pacific Operations Manager, said: “We were only too happy to help out a charity that is, frankly, like no other we have ever seen.
“The fact they open every Christmas Day to help those who maybe homeless or suffering with mental illness tells you everything you need to know about the type of organisation they are.”
With regard to the Christmas Day event, Gail added: “We opened our doors for FREE for the first celebration on December 25, 2015, and have continued this tradition ever since.
“What started as a plan to open our doors for lonely or vulnerable people to come along for soup/sandwiches and companionship soon grew into a massive community-spirited venture.
“Not only were we able to provide a full three-course meal, we had assistance from many people in the local community in offering gifts, money, entertainment, prizes, hairdressing and beauty treatments.”
