Cancer survivors’ donation brings Christmas joy to Winton Salvation Army

In a powerful display of community spirit, Bourne Water Dragons, the UK’s first all-cancer survivor dragon boat team, delivered a surprise donation of gifts to The Salvation Army in Winton on Tuesday (9 December 2025). The donation of toiletries hampers, made in support of the church and charity’s annual Christmas Present Appeal, will ensure that the local community experience the joy of a gift this festive season. 

This December, Winton Salvation Army has already distributed 1,788 gifts to children referred by local partners.  Community Centre Manager Tina Shave says the donation will now allow them to extend that support to adults in need. 

Tina said, “There is nothing as powerful as a group of like-minded people joining together to make a change. The donation was unexpected, so when the ladies from Bourne Water Dragons arrived, we were totally surprised by their generosity and their lovely eagerness to spread joy.” 

Tina highlighted the profound symbolism of the gift: “They impacted me personally by their evident joy in gifting other people – it shone from their faces! For those who receive these gifts, they are making this time of year one of hope. At a time when people have their own physical challenges, it can be so easy to focus on their own needs, but this group of people have put this aside to make Christmas better for others – that is truly inspirational.” 

This year, The Salvation Army fears more families than ever will struggle due to the ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Its Christmas Present Appeal aims to provide new toys and gifts for children in families facing hardship, where putting food on the table, heating homes, and paying bills is a daily challenge. 

The Bourne Water Dragons’ donation has extended the reach of this vital work. Hilary Coleman and Christine Bailey are active members of Bourne Water Dragons and said after learning of the Christmas Appeal on social media, they sought a practical way to offer support.   

Reflecting on the power of partnership, Tina said: “We believe that working together with other organisations in this community is so valuable – together we are so much stronger, and our impact is better. This donation has a greater impact because there is a celebration of the gift of life here too.” 

The Salvation Army in Winton supports the community through diverse, practical initiatives tailored to local needs. They provide hot meals on Monday evenings, distribute emergency food parcels, and offer essentials like clothes and sleeping bags to the homeless, emphasizing dignity through services like foot care. Additionally, their community centre hosts events like the Caribbean-themed "Holiday at Home" for over 60s and a club for young people, fostering friendship and support. The Café is open late twice a week for low-cost meals aimed at families and students.  

For more information about The Salvation Army’s work in Winton or to find out how you can support their efforts, visit Winton | The Salvation Army.