Claude’s Café in Derry / Londonderry has been named the first-ever recipient of the Praxis Care Champion Award, an initiative launched by Praxis Care to celebrate individuals and organisations that make our communities more welcoming and inclusive for all.
Claude’s Café was nominated by members of the Praxis Care community for its outstanding commitment to inclusion and kindness throughout the year, and especially for its remarkable Christmas Day initiative. Each year, Claude’s hires out the City Hotel on Christmas Day to host a festive dinner for guests who would otherwise be isolated. For others in the community who are unable to travel, they deliver a two-course meal straight to their door.
The effort is powered by a team of volunteers who cook and deliver meals, and supported by local businesses that donate gifts and contributions. Claude’s goes the extra mile by ensuring gifts are thoughtfully chosen for each recipient, spreading joy and dignity during the festive season.
Debbie Thompson, manager of Praxis Care’s Foyle Young People Service and one of the nominators, said: “Claude’s is welcoming and inclusive all year round, but at Christmas they go above and beyond for the more vulnerable members of our community.”
Praxis Care are a leading social care charity supporting people with mental ill health, autism, learning disabilities and dementia, and the Praxis Care Champion initiative recognises those who embody the values of inclusion, compassion, and community involvement. Claude’s Café exemplifies these principles, making them a deserving first recipient of this award.
To read more about the initiative, and to nominate a Praxis Care Champion in your area, visit our website: praxiscare.org/champion.