Since 2018, Chester Pride has been bringing people together on Christmas Day, offering a space at the table for anyone from the LGBTQ+ and wider community of Chester and the surrounding areas who may otherwise spend Christmas alone or simply struggle to afford the cost of the day.
For many, Christmas can be a difficult time, and we believe everyone deserves somewhere to go, a warm meal and a little Christmas cheer.
Each year, around 30 guests are welcomed to enjoy a hot and cold buffet, a personalised Christmas card and small gift, and taxi transport to and from the event if needed. There’s also plenty to keep everyone entertained, with prize bingo, quizzes and festive activities.
The event is made possible by a small team of dedicated volunteers who give up their own Christmas Day to make sure others don’t have to spend it alone.
To make the day happen, we need to raise around £700 to cover the cost of food, gifts, transport and activities. Every donation, no matter how big or small, helps us keep this much-loved event going.
If you’re able to make a donation, however big or small, it would really help us make the day happen. You can support us through our GoFundMe page.
We also make sure nothing goes to waste. Any remaining food is put to good use, with food parcels delivered directly to members of Chester’s homeless community on Christmas Day and additional food shared with local homeless charities and food banks across the city.
Want to join us?
If you or someone you know would benefit from a free place at our Christmas Day meal, we’d love to hear from you. You can register your interest using our Christmas Day Meal application form.
We’re also always grateful for an extra pair of hands. If you’d like to volunteer and help make Christmas special for others, please get in touch at info@chesterpride.co.uk.
Christmas is about coming together. With your support, we can make sure that space is there for everyone who needs it.