Local Charity Hero Gareth Williams Hosts Heartwarming Christmas Dinner for the Cefn Community with ARK Charity (Acts of Random Kindness) in Collaboration with John Walker & Oliver Park Foundation
This Christmas just gone, a true hero emerged in Wrexham as local charity hero Gareth Williams, through his initiative ARK Charity (Acts of Random Kindness), worked tirelessly to ensure that no one in the Cefn community had to spend the holiday alone. In collaboration with the John Walker & Oliver Park Foundation, Gareth hosted a free Christmas Dinner, spreading festive cheer and offering a warm, welcoming space for those who might otherwise face the season with loneliness or isolation.
The event was held at the Cefn, Rhosymedre & Newbridge Community Association (CRNCA) at The Old Canteen, Cefn Mawr Activity Centre. The gathering became a symbol of kindness, compassion, and community spirit. From 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm, over 40 festive dinners were served to people across the community, with some meals being delivered to those unable to attend in person.
Gareth, 44, shared that the inspiration for the event came from his own experiences of loneliness during the festive season. “I know how isolating Christmas can be for some people. It’s a time that should bring joy, but for many, it only highlights feelings of sadness and isolation. I wanted to change that, even if it’s just for one day,” Gareth explained.
To bring even more festive joy, Gareth dressed up as Father Christmas, filling the room with laughter and embodying the spirit of the season. His tireless effort to bring the community together through this dinner was further supported by Chef Chris from Corwen, who volunteered his culinary expertise to ensure the meal was both delicious and plentiful.
The CRNCA, where the dinner took place, lent their full support to the event, with Krissy Morrison from the association stating, “When Gareth approached us, we were deeply moved by his dedication and compassion. We’re proud to be part of something so meaningful, and we’re honored to provide a venue for such an important initiative.”
To make sure that no one was left out, Donna Thornley, the Cefn Community Council’s Community Agent, offered a delivery service, ensuring over 40 dinners were delivered throughout the community. “Not everyone can make it to the event, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out. I’m happy to help make sure everyone can enjoy a Christmas meal,” Donna said.
The walk-in portion of the event at CRNCA saw 10 guests in attendance, while the delivery service spread far and wide, ensuring that the warmth of Christmas reached the most vulnerable members of the community.
This initiative was made possible through the support of several generous local businesses and individuals, all of whom played key roles in making this Christmas special for so many. Gareth would like to extend his heartfelt thanks to:
- The CRNCA and Krissy Morrison for the use of their venue.
- Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer, Boots, and Tesco (David Roden of Tesco Cefn Mawr, Alex of Tesco Broughton) for their generous donations.
- The Entertainer Toy Store for providing toys for children in attendance.
- Andrew Ruscoe for his administrative support and encouragement of Gareth’s vision.
- Donna Thornley for her invaluable work delivering meals to those who couldn’t attend.
- Cefn Community Council for their continued backing.
- Lewis’s Farm in Bangor-on-Dee for providing the meat produce.
- Moneypenny’s who donated the hampers
- And many more who Gareth couldn’t think of off the top of his head while writing this.
Through his selfless efforts, Gareth Williams and his team, under the banner of ARK Charity (Acts of Random Kindness), alongside the John Walker & Oliver Park Foundation, truly made this Christmas brighter for many, spreading love, kindness, and good food to a community in need. His dedication and compassion exemplify the true spirit of Christmas, and the event serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that touches so many lives.
For those who wish to contribute or learn more about Gareth’s future initiatives with ARK Charity, he invites anyone interested to reach out.
Twitter: @Cefncouncil
Facebook: @Cefncommunitycouncil
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Address: George Edwards Hall, Well Street, Cefn Mawr, Wrexham LL14 3AE
