Posted on 23 December 2024
An afternoon of fun, food and laughter at our later living scheme in Whitstable
Residents and colleagues gathered for the annual Christmas party put on by Housing Scheme Officer, Michelle – or, as she was known on the day, Mrs Claus.
The event featured a host of activities and games that got everyone involved. Residents enthusiastically played musical hats, pinned the hat on Santa and tested their festive knowledge with a Christmas quiz.
A highlight of the day was the raffle, with a range of exciting prizes. The grand prize was a Samsung tablet, donated by a Hyde contractor through Match My Project.
Chief Operating Officer, Neal Ackcral presented the winning prize to Gladys, who said the tablet will be put to good use as she’ll use it to speak to her son who lives in Australia.
Neal said: “We’re committed to creating the best neighbourhoods and thriving communities for our customers, and I’m proud to say the work that Michelle and all our housing scheme officers are doing at their schemes is living proof of that.”
The raffle also raised enough money to buy a new shopping trolley for the scheme, which will make carrying shopping to their flats easier for residents.
Though Michelle led the event, it was a joint effort. Many residents came together to decorate the communal spaces and made donations to the event - testament to the community spirit.
Kathy, who’s lived at the scheme for 16 years, said: “We love events like these – we always have an occasion to come together, laugh, dance, drink and have a good time. We may be old, but we’re not boring,” she joked.
Neal added: “This year is really special as we’ve been able to fund parties and gifts for all our residents at every one of our schemes, thanks to Hyde Foundation and social value.”
The party was a wonderful opportunity for colleagues and residents to get together. It was more than just an afternoon of fun – it was a celebration of the true community spirit at The Oysters.
The Oysters comprises 38 self-contained flats, occupied by both couples and single people. Located on the north coast of Kent, the scheme overlooks Whitstable beach and is close to the town centre where residents enjoy shopping and eating out.