For a number of people Christmas can be an extremely lonely time, if they don’t have family or don’t get along with family or live too far away to get together. Helen and David Esdaile have found a way to help those who are on their own this Christmas.
Till two years ago this married couple operated a bed and breakfast. However, when they sold up and moved to Bomaderry, they wanted to find a way to help out in their new community. Since October they have, with support of the Melbourne organization ARMS (Australian Relief and Mercy Services) been opening the doors of a cottage for a free morning tea each Thursday.
Then, on Friday nights around 40 people, who either have some form of mental illness or learning disability and those on low incomes, gather together in the Esdaile house in Bomaderry. This couple’s aim is to help those who have little in the way of families and social contacts.
The Esdailes are trying to create a sense of belonging by providing somewhere for people who are often marginalized by society to come and have a free meal and to meet with others in a similar situation.
Next year the Esdailes plan to expand their ministry by serving Tuesday night dinners as well for seniors and singles, while keeping the Friday evenings more for families. But before then there is Christmas.
The Esdailes are opening the home to those who are on their own and have nowhere to go for Christmas but would like company and a traditional Christmas lunch.
What a thoughtful and caring idea this is. It is just one married couple’s way of caring for others and showing people the true meaning of Christmas.
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