An independent opticians in Cheadle helped a local charity reach its fundraising target in time to provide free Christmas meals for more than 200 people in the community who otherwise would have gone without.
Abra & Co Opticians, situated on Wilmslow Road, donated £376 to community group Handy Ladies, completing the charity’s fundraising total and ensuring that meals could be delivered on Christmas Eve to individuals and families in need.
Handy Ladies has been providing Christmas dinners to vulnerable people for the past five years. Supported by a large team of volunteers, the group prepares, cooks, packs, and delivers full three-course meals, alongside sweet treats, buffet items and a small gift, distributing these to elderly residents, people living with disabilities or mental health challenges, financially struggling households, and anyone facing hardship over the festive period.
2025’s fundraiser was held in memory of Pauline, who made the very first donation to the initiative in 2020 and supported the charity each year, contributing her famous trifles to the Christmas meal packages.
With many local households once again forced to choose between ‘heat and eat’, Handy Ladies’ work continues to make a profound difference.
Joanne Walton at Handy Ladies said: “In a world where so much negativity is reported, we’re really grateful to be able to share this Christmas miracle. I know it brightened so many people’s Christmas, and it’s thanks to all the incredible people who donate that we can make this happen.”
In addition to the donation, Abra & Co will continue its partnership with Handy Ladies following the New Year. For the first few months of 2025, the practice plan to provide free sight tests for those identified by the charity as needing access to eyecare but unable to afford it.
Director at Abra & Co Opticians, Abra Arshad, added: “We are incredibly proud to support Handy Ladies and the vital work they do for people in our community. No one should go without a hot meal at Christmas, and we’re pleased our donation could help them reach their target in time for the festive period.
“Our team is committed to continuing this partnership through 2026. We know that good vision and good health go hand-in-hand, and so we want to make sure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can access the care they need.”
Abra & Co has been part of the Cheadle community for several years, and the practice’s ongoing charitable involvement forms part of its commitment to supporting local families, improving access to healthcare and giving back to those who need it most.
For more information about Abra & Co Opticians, or to book an appointment, please visit www.abra-opticians.co.uk
