Every year we host a Holiday at Home where guests are able to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of a country. This year, we travelled to the vibrant and joyous Italy!
On a hot and sunny day fit for the occasion, Highfield Church was decked out in Italian flags, scenery and art ready for a day of activities for our guests to enjoy. We kicked off with dancer Laila Hyde teaching the traditional Tarantella dance followed by Rodney Stratford, who sung two sets of beautiful Italian music, inviting everyone to join in and learn the lyrics. Guests also enjoyed performances from Highfield Primary School’s orchestra and choir, who all did brilliantly in adding to the liveliness of the event!
Lunch was undoubtedly a highlight, as everyone was served a delicious three-course meal: Italian-style breads, meats, cheeses, pizza, pasta and salad, all topped with a dessert of tiramisu and lemon cake. Also available alongside were mocktails, which were hugely popular!
In true Italian style, we settled down for an afternoon of coffee with amaretti biscuits, allowing for chats between volunteers and attendees alike. It was such a pleasure to hear our guests recall past trips to Italy: be it the stunning Lake Garda or an evening gondola in Venice, it was clear that the event resurfaced special memories. It was an excellent opportunity for elderly people from across the city to come together and share in one another’s company, enjoying a day infused with a truly Italian feeling of joy.
We want to take the time to thank all our volunteers who made this brilliant day possible. Be it preparing food and crafts, dressing up for the occasion, or simply being a welcoming smile, thank you so much for the fun and energy you brought to the day!
We hope to see everyone at our next Holiday at Home in 2026, but for now – ciao!
If you would like to donate to Caraway’s work, the link can be found here: https://www.caraway.uk.com/donate/
