We are calling on the community to help spread festive cheer this Christmas by taking part in our Christmas Card Appeal, which brings messages of kindness and joy to local care home residents.

Now in its fourth year, the appeal invites people to write Christmas cards filled with warm wishes, which are then hand-delivered by volunteers to residents in care homes across Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf.

“A simple card can make a huge difference,” said volunteer Rhodri Poacher, who first came up with the idea for the appeal.

“For many residents who don’t receive regular visits, knowing that someone has taken the time to think of them can really brighten their Christmas.”

A Record-Breaking Year in 2024

Last year’s campaign saw an incredible outpouring of generosity. The appeal reached over 107,000 people on social media, with cards arriving from across Wales, England, Spain, Japan, and even New Zealand.

By mid-December, more than 5,100 cards had been received - more than double the total from 2023. Volunteers worked tirelessly to sort and deliver every card, ensuring hundreds of residents across the three counties felt remembered and valued during the festive season.

Some care homes even joined in by having their own residents write cards for others.

“The smiles on people’s faces said it all,” said one volunteer. “We had lovely messages from homes saying how much the cards meant.”

How to Get Involved in 2025

Taking part in this year’s Christmas Card Appeal is easy. Simply write a Christmas card with your own festive message - you can also include a few words about yourself if you wish - and send or drop it off at the charity’s Cynon Linc head office in Aberdare, or at one of four local collection points. Full details can be found on our appeal page. Cards should arrive by 5 December to give volunteers plenty of time to deliver them to care homes before Christmas. The 2025 campaign officially opens on 3 November. If you don't have time to write a card a small donation would make a real difference, just click here to donate.

Making a Difference

The appeal is just one of several initiatives run by Age Connects Morgannwg to help reduce loneliness and isolation among older people. Other projects include a popular pen pal scheme and a befriending programme, which both provide meaningful connection and regular contact for those who may otherwise spend much of their time alone.

Neuroscientist Dr Lynda Shaw explains why gestures like this matter:

“Receiving a card can lift self-esteem, ease loneliness, and even help protect against the early stages of depression. It’s a powerful act of connection.”

This Christmas, take a few minutes to write a card - and help bring warmth, smiles, and festive cheer to someone who needs it most.

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