Louth Volunteer Centre appeals for Festive Friends this Christmas

Louth Volunteer Centre is calling on the community to become Festive Friends this Christmas, as the  organisation faces a record number of referrals for people who will be alone on Christmas Day  without a dinner or companionship. 

Since launching in 2021, the Festive Friends programme has delivered hundreds of festive meals and  gifts to local residents—most of whom are older individuals who would otherwise spend the day  entirely on their own. 

This year, referrals have risen significantly across the county. The Volunteer Centre is urgently seeking  additional volunteers to ensure no one is left without support, company, or Christmas cheer. Volunteers will deliver a festive meal, provided by the Louth Volunteer Centre, along with a small gift.  They will also spend 30 minutes to one hour with the recipient as a friendly companion. 

Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre, said: “This simple act of kindness can change  someone’s entire Christmas. For many of the people referred to us, a Festive Friend may be the  only person they speak to on Christmas Day.

"We’re appealing to the community to help us meet  the record demand this year and ensure that no one in Louth feels forgotten.” 

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One long-standing Festive Friends volunteer, “Mary,” shared her experience: “You don’t realise how  much it means until you’re standing at someone’s door and they tell you you’re the only visitor  they’ll have all day. Spending even an hour with someone brings so much joy—to them and to me.  It’s the most meaningful part of my Christmas.” 

What Festive Friends Do 

• Deliver a festive meal and a small gift 
• Spend 30–60 minutes with someone on Christmas Day as a befriender 
• Bring warmth, conversation, and connection to a person who would otherwise be alone 

How to Get Involved 

Those interested in becoming a Festive Friend can sign up through Louth Volunteer Centre at  www.volunteerlouth.ie or in person at the Dundalk or Drogheda offices. Volunteers will receive full  guidance and support ahead of Christmas Day. 

“If you can spare even one hour, you can make Christmas brighter for someone who needs it most,” added Kayleigh Mulligan.