The Big Goody Bag Help Out

It's the holidays

This festive season, spread some holiday cheer by volunteering to pack and deliver goody bags for older members of our community. We're inviting students to help us pack bags filled with non-perishable food items and fun activity gifts - perfect for brightening someone's day and making the season a little more special! You'll also get to meet and greet with guests, filling the room with good laughs and stories to share. 

You will be part of a Newham Council event that is committed to creating a warm and memorable experience for residents.

What would I be doing?

Don't worry - you don't need any specialist skills or experience, we promise! You'll be part of a team with people who are really experienced with hosting and working with older people. You will be adding so much by being a smiling face and a friendly support:

You'll be taking part in:

• Packing Goody Bags: Help assemble holiday-themed packages filled with food essentials and activity gifts that bring joy and comfort. 
• Meet & Greet: Welcome older guests with a warm smile and friendly conversation as they receive their goody bags. 
• Spread Holiday Cheer: Share the spirit of giving and make this holiday season brighter for those who may be spending it alone. 

Additional Details

• Dress Code: Smart Casual. Feel free to wear Christmas jumpers or Santa hats!
• Identification: We’ll provide lanyards for easy identification as volunteers.

What's special about this?

This volunteering opportunity will mean you'll be changing the world for almost 300 people, in terms of loneliness and food poverty.

Urban loneliness is growing rapidly round the world and did you know it has a really negative health impact? Some people reckon it's as bad for us as smoking. We love the mission of The Loneliness Lab, which is a global collective of people and organisations on a mission to design connection into the places we live, work, and play. Check them out here. London is no different - for many people in our capital, the holidays can be a really lonely time. And this can be particularly felt by older people. 

We know our students really care about the cost-of-living crisis. You are living it, as young people living in a super expensive capital city. Many people feel this crisis and we've all heard the stories of people going without food so they can feed their children. Older people are really at risk of living in poverty in London - you can read more here. We know you'll love being part of this volunteering because you will be part of a move to get 280 older East Londoners to have a hot meal. Don't worry - we'll make sure you do as well!

By volunteering at this we reckon you'll feel a surge of holiday happiness! A boost in your mental health and a feeling of community and belonging. You'll be part of a team of UCL students and a friendly face from our team will meet you there until you feel confident and happy to stay. Don't worry about not knowing anyone - you will be welcomed with open arms and you're so valuable to this event going well.