Spreading Christmas cheer: Dot Dot Dot supports Poplar HARCA's annual community lunch
For more than a decade, we have worked in partnership with Poplar HARCA, providing live-in security through property guardianship across the local area. Over that time, our guardians have become part of the neighbourhoods in which they live – getting to know local people, places and communities.
Each December, Poplar HARCA hosts a much-loved Christmas lunch for older residents, offering a chance to come together at a time of year that can otherwise feel quiet or isolating. This year, Dot Dot Dot was proud to sponsor the lunch and support the event on the day, with both our team and local guardians volunteering their time.
A well-loved local tradition
Poplar HARCA’s Christmas lunch is an important fixture in the community calendar. For many residents, it is a highlight of the festive season – an opportunity to reconnect with neighbours, enjoy a shared meal and take part in something that feels special.
As guests arrived, the space was already buzzing. Tables were set, decorations were up, and there was a real sense of anticipation for the afternoon ahead. Local children performed festive songs, a raffle kept everyone on their toes, and the room was filled with conversation and laughter.
Supporting the event on the day
As event sponsors, Dot Dot Dot staff and guardians were pleased to work alongside the Poplar HARCA team throughout the day. We arrived early to help set up the venue and stayed on to help serve food, top up drinks and spend time with residents.
Our guardians quickly got stuck in, chatting with guests, swapping stories and helping to create a friendly atmosphere. Their enthusiasm and willingness to take part made a real difference to the feel of the event.
Bala Thakrar, Head of Operations at Poplar HARCA, shared his reflections afterwards:
“Your team is great. They engaged with all the residents participating really well. That means a lot to us. This is an annual highlight for a lot of these residents.”
Reflections from our guardians
For our guardians, the lunch was both enjoyable and meaningful. Several spoke about how much they valued the chance to give something back to the community they live in.
One guardian, originally from Spain, reflected on how the day made them feel more connected:
“It feels nice to give back to the community. I don’t get to be around older people much in my day-to-day life. Being involved made me feel part of something, especially being far from home and not having my family around.”
More than a festive meal
Throughout the afternoon, residents shared how much this annual gathering means to them. For people who may not see many faces during the week, the lunch offers a chance to catch up, enjoy good food and feel valued.
One resident spoke about how important it is to have people take the time to come together and talk – a reminder of the power of small moments of connection.
Partnership in action
Supporting Poplar HARCA’s Christmas lunch was a warm reminder of what long-term partnerships can achieve. While property guardianship addresses the practical challenges of empty buildings and housing affordability, experiences like this show its wider value in helping people feel part of a community.
We were delighted to sponsor and support an event that brings so much joy to local residents, and we look forward to continuing our work alongside Poplar HARCA, supporting both the buildings and communities around them in the years ahead.
