Wishing Hearts was founded around five years ago, during the pandemic, when there was a growing spotlight on loneliness and the impact it can have on elderly people. The charity began by making and distributing Christmas care packages to local elderly people living alone without family support.
Since then, Wishing Hearts has grown to provide longer-term support through wish-granting experiences and social events. Their work is all about showing that elderly people can still have dreams, make memories, and enjoy new experiences.
Some of the wonderful wishes they have helped grant include having a rose tattoo, watching a bagpipe player perform, attending a pottery class, and seeing a shire horse one last time. Each wish is completely personal and designed to bring joy, comfort, and connection.
Alongside these special experiences, Wishing Hearts also runs regular social events including a fortnightly coffee morning, a summer tea party, and a Christmas tea party. Their next tea party takes place this Tuesday, where around 70 elderly people will come together to enjoy conversation, companionship, and a sense of community.
At the heart of everything Wishing Hearts does is a simple but powerful aim: to combat loneliness, foster connection, and help elderly people build new friendships.
Their next big goal is to open a community hub, and all fundraising support this year will go towards helping make that project a reality.
Throughout 2026, Kentish Players will be hosting several events to contribute towards an end-of-year donation to Wishing Hearts. Keep an eye on our social media channels for ways to get involved and support this fantastic cause.
We are delighted to support Wishing Hearts in 2026 and look forward to helping raise funds and awareness for such a meaningful cause.