Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby in the lead up to Christmas
Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby in the lead up to Christmas
Everton FC Women players brightened the days of families at Claire House Liverpool just in time for Christmas. Donning blue Santa hats and handing out gifts, players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik spent time with some of the babies, children and young adults the charity supports.
In a "heartwarming" visit to the hospice's West Derby site, the footballers chatted with families about the difference the hospice makes to seriously and terminally ill children across Merseyside, Cheshire, and North Wales. The teammates brought smiles and laughter, posing for photographs and joining in activities such as Christmas-themed crafts and icing gingerbread biscuits.
Midfielder Clare Wheeler said: “We got to meet parents and kids who attend Claire House and got a brief insight into what Christmas is like for them. We got to meet them and speak to them about the club and what this facility does.
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"Everton is definitely large on the community and giving back to those who support us so heavily. Christmas is the time of giving, and small gestures like this mean a lot. I am really proud to be able to come here with Everton and give back to those people.”
Defender Elise Stenevik added: “I really enjoyed myself. We got to paint some gingerbread and speak to some parents and children. It was nice to meet new people with whom you would not usually interact, and it was fun.
Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby to give out Christmas gifts
Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby to give out Christmas gifts
(Image: Everton FC)
“I hope they enjoyed the gifts. We found it most fun to give out the Everton Santa Claus hats. Many of them were Evertonians, so that was really nice to see." She joked: "The ones that support Liverpool, we tried to make them support Everton instead."
Claire Jones, care coordination team lead, thanked Everton FC Women. She said: “We are so grateful to the women’s team for their generosity and kindness in bringing gifts and spreading Christmas cheer at Claire House Liverpool.
Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby in the lead up to Christmas
Everton players Clare Wheeler and Elise Stenevik visited Claire House in West Derby in the lead up to Christmas(Image: Everton FC)
"It really was a highlight for our families. All the babies, children and young adults attending had a gorgeous time colouring tree decorations and decorating gingerbread. Christmas time can be incredibly tough for many of our families, but moments like this visit create memories that lift everyone’s spirits. And the event brought so much happiness and big smiles.
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