The family business behind Swansea’s free Christmas dinner for people who are homeless or alone says it has now given more than £250,000 to local charities and community groups.
JR Group, the family-run events and hospitality business, says the figure is made up of fundraising, sponsorship, donations and in-kind support built up over years of work across south-west Wales.
The milestone comes as the firm prepares to launch this year’s Together at Christmas campaign with the council.
The event has become a fixture of the city’s festive calendar at the Brangwyn Hall. Last year’s, on 9 December, offered a free two-course Christmas dinner, live entertainment and stalls with help and advice.
Visitors could also pick up food and clothing, get a free haircut, and find hygiene supplies, children’s books and pet care help, with free minibuses running from the city centre.
The firm says the project has run for more than 10 years and has always been about more than a meal. It brings charities, volunteers and businesses together in the belief that “nobody should feel forgotten, especially at Christmas”.
“We’ve never been the biggest business, but we’ve always believed in punching above our weight”
Jessica Rice, director of JR Group, said the family business had “always believed that success should be measured by more than commercial achievements alone”.
“The communities we serve have supported us throughout our journey, and we’ve always felt a responsibility to give something back,” she said.
She said the milestone “belongs to far more people than just us”, and credited the firm’s team, clients, partners and supporters.
“We’ve never been the biggest business, but we’ve always believed in punching above our weight when it comes to supporting our communities. Quite simply, it’s the right thing to do.”
Jamie Rice, who co-owns the business with his wife Jess, said the focus was on what comes next. “There are always individuals, charities and organisations who need support,” he said.
Schools, sports clubs and a magazine relaunch
Alongside Together at Christmas, the firm says it has backed grassroots groups, schools, sports clubs and community projects through events, hospitality, fundraising and volunteering as well as cash.
JR Group also runs food and drink at Swansea Council venues including the Brangwyn Hall, and has relaunched Swansea Life magazine.
Details of this year’s Together at Christmas, including the date, are still to be announced. Last year’s date was confirmed in October.
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