Sleigh Belles Christmas: Essex residents to donate cards

Charity - An Essex group is asking for the county's help in distributing Christmas cards for people less fortunate this festive season <i>(Image: Julie Cass)</i>
Charity - An Essex group is asking for the county's help in distributing Christmas cards for people less fortunate this festive season (Image: Julie Cass)
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A charity scheme is calling on all Essex residents to share joy with those less fortunate this Christmas by donating festive cards.

The Sleigh Belles Christmas card appeal was established in 2019 by Shannon Conlon, aiming to spread love and festive cheer to the homeless, care home residents, those in hospitals and emergency service teams, as well as food banks.

The cards will reach those who will spend the holiday season alone, isolated or unable to visit their loved ones.

This Christmas season, for its sixth year, the appeal is manned by Julie Cass – who is calling on residents in Braintree, Halstead, Earls Colne and the surrounding areas to donate unwritten cards for volunteers to ink with well wishes.

Love - The cards reach those lonely, vulnerable and unable to visit their families at Christmas (Image: Julie Cass)

Julie said: "Every card makes a difference.

"A few kind words can lift spirits, bring smiles, and remind someone that they are thought of.

"I hope to keep the tradition alive and make this year’s effort our best ever with the volunteers coming from all areas including Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Hertfordshire."

For winter 2025, 12,000 Christmas cards have been requested with the 2nd Coggeshall Brownies, Hedingham secondary school and the Ramsey Academy getting involved.

For more information and card donation enquiries, visit www.facebook.com

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