Giving Galore in Paddington this Christmas

The season of goodwill is almost upon us, with plenty of opportunities to get in the festive spirit in Paddington.

On Wednesday 4 December there are two Christmas celebrations to enjoy – at Paddington Central and Merchant Square. The Winter Social at Sheldon Square will include performances from a gospel choir and plenty of mulled wine and mince pies. Along the canal at the Pocket Park, Merchant Square will be turning on their Christmas lights and illuminating bridges over the water, with pupils from several musical ensembles at Marylebone Boys’ School providing the entertainment.

There are plenty of opportunities to give back too. Merchant Square will be holding a toiletry collection from 18 November – 2 December for the Marylebone Project - a local women’s shelter. A collection point will be based in 5 Merchant Square reception; for donations of toiletries, socks, underwear, handwarmers and perfume.

Paddington Central have partnered with Calling London to support their annual winter coat campaign. During November, coats can be left at the donation points at number 2 and 4 Kingdom Street and at 3 Sheldon Square. The donations will be distributed to charities across London, to support individuals living in poverty and struggling in the cold weather.

North Paddington Foodbank will also benefit from Paddington Central’s generosity. Local residents and employees are being invited to drop Christmas gifts, non-perishable food and Christmas treats to the reception desks at 2 and 4 Kingdom Street and 3 Sheldon Square between 25 November and 6 December.

Paddington Central are joining forces with the Community Programme this December to recruit volunteers to wrap your Christmas gifts, in return for a donation to St John’s Hospice. On 10 and 11 December, volunteers from Vodafone and other Paddington Central occupiers will be armed with their sticky tape and curling ribbon, ready to create beautiful gifts.