Each year it’s estimated that 64% of those in the UK who participate in Secret Santa do not keep the gifts received. This adds up to a staggering £177 million effectively being thrown away, not to mention the environmental impact on top.
This year HIGHVERN has dropped the well-known festive office tradition. Instead, staff have chosen to divert the funds to buying food for the local elderly community. Each Christmas, Age Concern Jersey collect food donations and put together hampers to give to many in the local elderly community. This is the second year HIGHVERN has taken part in ‘Project Hamper’.
HIGHVERN’s Managing Director, Martin Hall commented: ‘When we heard the statistics, we knew we had to make a change. All of us here agreed we would gladly give up the small gifts if it meant creating positive change for others. The generous response from HIGHVERN staff has been inspiring and we look forward to continuing this initiative in the years to come.’
HIGHVERN will also be making further donations to two local charities selected by its staff; this year they have been supporting the Neil Hussey Heart Charity & Mind Jersey who will both receive an extra Christmas donation.
To make a Christmas food donation of your own, get in touch with Age Concern Jersey here: info@ageconcern.je
