GoodGym Elves do Christmas deliveries across Sheffield

'Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the city; Some Goodgymers were stirring, even when the weather was gritty.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care; In hopes that GoodGymers soon would be there.

The people were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of frozen Food Works meals danced in their heads.

And GoodGymers in their trainers, or on their bikes; Had just read the spreadsheet of addresses for a long winter's hike; 'Live Well' whistled, and shouted, and called us by name:

"Now, Celine! now, Charly! now, Mike, Bee and Hannah! On, Seiko! On Max! On Cat, Chelle and Rach! To the top of the porch! to the end of the ginnel! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

So when out in the garden there arose such a clatter; People sprang from their chairs to see what was the matter. When what to their wondering eyes did appear; But a GoodGymer, a present and a meal very near!

And we whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: "Now, Margaret! Now, Peter! These are for you; Come answer the door as I've got 5 more to do.

Despite flats and absent folk. And people who were not awoke. And gates there were locked. And no one could hear despite how loud we knocked... (We left notes, spoke to neighbours and phoned them).

But then they did answer the door with such glee! And we felt happy we could give our time for others than me!

Some shed a lone tear; And were grateful to be near. To be thought of and seen when no one else may have been.

And after a wave, smile, chat and happy face; We sprang on our feet, to the very next place; To climb the hills of our fine Sheffield - the great cit of steel; Which is green, friendly and charming and has such appeal (particularly to Londoners in covid times).

And we heard all exclaim, as we went out of sight — “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Thanks to all those that gave their time to deliver presents and meals to people across the city.

There was such lovely feedback from beneficiaries and volunteers and from the Referral agency (Live Well which is part of South Yorkshire Housing Association - SYHA) so thanks all so much. Great also to deliver meals lovingly made by volunteers at Food Works, our local food waste charity.

Phone calls were also made on Christmas weekend so well done to all those volunteers too as not necessarily an easy task. And lovely volunteers from other GG groups in the country signed up.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!