Bags containing a variety of items to get pensioners through the colder months have been dropped off at almost 300 households in and around Livingston.

Tenants aged 65-72 were delighted to receive the packs which contained items including cake, shortbread, soup, radiator covers, a thermal cup, a torch, a hand warmer, and lots of useful information on community groups and local schemes which support the elderly.

CEO George Webster said: “The older generation are particularly vulnerable during the colder weather. So it’s important to look after pensioners at this time of year.

“Almond wanted to make a gesture to show our more mature tenants how much we care, and to ensure they get any help they might need over the festive holidays. We hope they all get to enjoy Christmas and New Year.”

Last year, Almond provided packs to those aged 73 and over. So this year the social landlord gifted them to anyone aged 65-72. The aim is to provide a Winter Wellbeing pack every two years to pensioners who might need a helping hand.

Housing officers, who have delivered the packs to tenants, have had a positive response. Dale Mackenzie showed his gratitude on Facebook, posting: “What an amazing idea! Having given my nana a lovely wee gift bag to help during the winter, she’s chuffed to bits.”

Meanwhile, Almond Housing Association was also busy spreading Christmas cheer by helping tenants in need over the festive season.

The social landlord secured toys and gifts from the Cash For Kids Mission Christmas appeal, to enable housing officers to deliver to 36 households – making sure no child has to go without this Christmas.

Almond staff were also busy distributing groceries to households facing food poverty during the holidays, after purchasing a pallet of goods from one of its regular suppliers, containing cereal, vegetables, pasta and diluting juice, as well as confectionery and other festive treats.

Door-to-door deliveries have been made directly to tenants, and more goods have been sourced to top up the Riverside Community Fridge, where surplus food donated by local business and individuals can be shared.

Last month, Almond held its Christmas Open House, where Santa distributed selection boxes to tenants’ children, and the Housing Association gifted tickets to lucky families for the local pantomime in a prize draw.