Each Christmas, The Almshouse Association takes great joy in sending gift vouchers to almshouse residents aged 90 and above, a tradition made possible by a legacy left to the Association over 70 years ago.

In Christmas 2024, we distributed 693 gifts – our highest number to date! This milestone highlights the enduring power of a thoughtfully invested gift in a Will and the remarkable benefits of almshouse living, with a growing number of residents in their 90s and 100s enjoying longer, happy lives.

Mrs Meadows, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust

Resident, Cambridge Royal Albert Homes
Joy, resident and her neighbour Ellen, Le Personne Homes

Mr and Mrs Dummer, residents, Eleanor Palmer Trust
Resident, Cambridge Royal Albert Homes

Mr Gransby, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust
Mrs Lawton, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust

Resident, Walton Charity

The Almshouse Association Christmas Fund traces its roots to a generous legacy left over 70 years ago by Major Allnatt, a successful businessman and philanthropist. Major Allnatt worked closely with Leonard Hackett, the Association’s founding General Secretary, and was deeply committed to supporting its mission.

He expressed a heartfelt wish for a small gift to be given to almshouse residents on Christmas Eve and chose to remain anonymous during his lifetime, until his passing in 1969.

The Almshouse Association carefully invested the funds he provided, enabling us to honour his name and legacy each year. Today, this takes the form of a gift voucher, sent to almshouse charities for their eligible residents to enjoy during the festive season.

Resident, Walton Charity

Evelyn, resident, St Johns Winchester

Resident, Cambridge Royal Albert Homes
Peggy, resident, Chubbs Almshouses
Mrs Bodger, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust
Pat, resident, Fetcham United Charities
Mrs Moorhouse, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust
Resident, Davenport Homes
Resident, Davenport Homes
Resident, Davenport Homes
Resident, Davenport Homes
Margaret, Resident, Louisa Lilley Almshouses

A heartfelt thank you to all the clerks and trustees of almshouse charities for ensuring these special gifts reach residents on time. We also deeply appreciate you capturing and sharing the memorable moments.

Please keep the photos coming – receiving them is them is always a highlight of our day here at the Association!


See also: Festive fun at Member Charities: