East Midlands Airport spreads Christmas cheer to local communities
East Midlands Airport (EMA) purchased 186 tickets to the pantomime Sleeping Beauty in Loughborough Town Hall.
The tickets were given to children and their families from Rendell Primary School, Cobden Primary School and Limehurst Academy in Loughborough for the matinee performance on Saturday 26 November.
Making their experience even more special, goody bags full of treats and surprises were given to audience members by airport staff supported by local MP Jane Hunt.
Jane said, “I was delighted to hear about East Midlands Airport’s generous Christmas initiative. This is a fantastic way to bring some Christmas magic to local school children and I am sure that the goody bags will go down a treat!”
The airport has also contributed donations to 250 Christmas hampers for people aged 75 and over in Kegworth. The hampers have been arranged by local group, One Kegworth, and include homemade Christmas cake, mince pies, chocolate oranges, fruit, a wide range of other food items and a Kegworth calendar.
East Midlands Airport’s support has been made possible thanks to its Community Sponsorship Fund. This 'small grants fund' supports local charities and community groups which, without financial backing, might otherwise not be able to take place. This year alone, 23 different groups have benefitted from more than £14,000 of funding.
Colleen Hempson, East Midlands Airport’s Community Engagement Manager, said: “Christmas is a joyful time of the year, but for many people the festive season can be really tough. Thanks to our Community Sponsorship Fund, we’re able to step in and help and, by doing so, bring a little festive cheer to those who need it most.”