‘Hello Neighbour’ boxes help spread joy to lonely and vulnerable in Sheffield
and live on Freeview channel 276
Age Better in Sheffield teamed up with a number of individuals and organisations to create the ‘Hello Neighbour’ boxes for people aged 50 and over.
They are packed with various items including postcards with Pete McKee’s distinctive ‘Perfect Day’ image on, Move More’s booklet on keeping active at home, a page from Josephine Dellow’s famous Sheffield Colouring Book, information on Age Better’s befriending service, tips on mindfulness, and a trusty Yorkshire Tea bag.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad
Hannah Thornton, communications and toolkit officer for Age Better in Sheffield said the current pandemic is tough for everyone, particularly those who live alone, are shielding, or who aren’t online.
She said: “All of our work at Age Better in Sheffield focuses on growing and nurturing connections and communities to help reduce loneliness – this feels more important now than ever before, though of course has new challenges as all we maintain physical distancing.
“Although everyone’s idea of joy is different we hope that at least some of the items in these boxes spark creativity, remind people of the wonderful city we live in, help connections thrive, and reassure people that we (and many other organisations) are here for them if they need us.
“We’d like to say another big thank you to all the wonderful people in Sheffield who have generously contributed their work for this – it has been a hugely collaborative effort and there’s a lot of love being sent in every box. A final thank you to The National Lottery Community Fund whose support has enabled us to create these boxes.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad
Around 1,500 boxes have already been distributed among Age Better’s partner organisations such as Sheffield Mind, Age UK, the South Yorkshire Housing Association and other smaller community organisations.
Age Better in Sheffield says there are still approximately 800 boxes ready to be gifted to those in the community who are aged 50 and over, living alone, or shielding.
For more information or to request a box call 0114 2900 294 and ask to speak to a member of the Age Better in Sheffield team or email [email protected].