More Christmas spirit about

Santa's helpers: photo DDM/EL

Four women from Albi were moved by the plight of poor and homeless people in their city and decided to do an Advent calendar - but in reverse. Instead of opening a window to find a gift, they made gifts to give away.
Making up boxes containing essential needs for a homeless or poor person, some for men, some for women and some for children, plus some treats where possible the four friends will be distributing their Christmas boxes in the next couple of weeks.
We have seen a similar project closer to Tagland, where the members of FIFI (friends in France international) have been repeating their idea of preparing similar boxes for distribution to a women's shelter in the Tarn. And Mains Tendues 82, the local charity based in Varen is to distribute gifts to the most elderly residents of the commune plus a donation to the village school to entertain our youngest residents. They will also be making gifts to the various refugees and their families housed locally, an idea which has been greeted with generosity by supporters.
At a time when so much is being made of the plight of ordinary people around us it is heartening that some positive action is being taken to share Christmas with those less well off.