A man from Leeds who says he will spend Christmas alone has put a call out on social media asking if anybody would like to come over for Christmas dinner.
David Bryant, 62, posted in the Facebook group Leedsplace asking if anyone would like to keep him company over Christmas as he will be on his own. His post, which says "I'm 62 and will be on my own xmas day, would love to invite someone for dinner", has so far received almost 700 likes and over 150 comments with people rallying around David offering him help at what can be a very lonely time.
Some people face the prospect of Christmas alone and Leeds residents have come together, backed by Yorkshire spirit to offer their support. Some have also said they are in the same position saying "no one" should be alone at Christmas.
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A lady called Marie offered her home to the gentleman, saying: "I don’t have much but your more than welcome to come to mine for dinner".
A man called Liam added: "Really warming reading through these posts not only people offering to help but also offering to help each other too, because of this, this is categorically just became the best Facebook post I have seen in all of 2022".
Some, however, said that they are looking forward to spending Christmas alone. User Anne said: "I'm going to be on my own, I bought in some lovely food and I'm looking forward to a peaceful stress free Christmas. It's not as bad as it sounds, you can make the day your own. I've spent several Christmases alone even when I've been invited I've stayed home"
Another lady called Trish said: "I hope you find someone but please be very careful, there's some awful people out there. " Hundreds of residents offered help and advice for where people can go at Christmas time.
There are a number of charities and support groups in Leeds offering free food and shelter over Christmas. These are listed below:
Rainbow Junktion
Rainbow Junktion is a non-profit, pay as you feel community café. The venue operates a food share system and will be open on Christmas day with no one being turned away. It is located in Burley.
Leeds Homeless Street Angels
The Homeless Street Angels have spent time putting together hampers this Christmas, ready to give away to those households that will struggle to afford food over the holidays. They also feed and clothe homeless people on the streets of Headingley and Leeds City Centre.
St Vincent's Support Centre
The support centre will be open on Christmas Day for dinner, with members of the community invited along to enjoy a free meal and some company between 12pm and 3.30pm.
St George's Crypt
St George's Crypt is a homeless shelter open to all, not just Leeds residents. They will be open on Christmas from the morning until the afternoon offering help to those who need it.
Sunnyview House Care Home
This care home has partnered with charity Re-engage and will be opening its doors to elderly people in the community to help ensure that they don’t have to face Christmas Day alone.
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