Chichester charity launches 'Cinema in a Box' for care home residents
The initiative aims to "gift the joy of film" to care home residents who have been self-isolating during the COVID-19 pandemic
Care home residents in West Sussex will not be running out of films to watch this festive season, thanks to a new initiative.
Chichester Cinema at New Park has launched ‘Cinema in a Box’, with Kings Lodge in Chichester the first to pilot the scheme.
Residents have chosen a host of films to enjoy over Christmas, from classics such as ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ and ‘Gone with the Wind’ to newer releases including biographical musical films, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and ‘Rocket Man’.
Each month, the care homes who sign up to the charity's scheme will receive a film of their choice, as well as cakes from COOK and other goodies.
Kerry-Ann Haley, activities manager at Kings Lodge, who has recently helped create a ‘cinema room’ at the care home, said:
"It has been such an honour to be the first care home to pilot the ‘Cinema in a Box’ scheme.
"Our residents were so grateful to receive their box of requested DVDs, along with cakes for everyone from the amazing ‘COOK’ of Chichester, which they absolutely loved.
"Now we have plenty of films to choose from to watch in our very own cinema room.
"It will make such a difference to our residents’ lives during these difficult times."
Meanwhile Pam Haines, resident at Kings Lodge, has described it as a "wonderful idea", adding she "honestly can’t believe it":
"I am bewitched and bewildered.
"We have been given so many great films to watch.
"It is heart-warming to know that people out there are thinking of us.
"And the cakes were out of this world.
"You have truly made my day.
"I cannot thank Chichester Cinema at New Park for all it’s doing."
David Phillips and Melanie Driver, trustees for volunteer and fundraising at Chichester Cinema at New Park, added:
"We’re delighted to be delivering some festive cheer to local care home residents during these difficult times, many of whom have gone months without seeing family members and loved ones.
"We’re looking forward to rolling out the scheme to more homes in the coming months and welcome anyone interested to please get in touch."
Chichester Cinema at New Park is planning to roll out ‘Cinema in a Box’ to four additional care homes in the coming months.
Anyone interested in getting involved should email mel@mayennaise.com .
Chichester Cinema is a small charity which offers film experiences from everywhere for everyone.
Donations can be made online.