- Aims to donate 25,000 books to 25 deserving schools
By Venessa Anthony
The initiative was launched on Sunday (27), with the unveiling of the Carriage of Hope as well as other celebrations to share the festive cheer. Christmas is fast approaching, and one by one, the streets are beginning to light up with bright Christmas decorations. Given its landmark location, The Kingsbury Colombo did not hesitate to jump in on the Christmas spirit with a tree-lighting ceremony, which Colombo society has begun to look forward to at hotels and restaurants in the past few years.
However, this year, The Kingsbury Colombo has decided to stray from the traditional tree and instead opted for a contemporary Christmas carriage, which highlighted the true purpose of the season.
There is no doubt that our nation has a strong tradition of giving, which has broadened our access to health and human services, fostered an appreciation for our history and cultural heritage, advanced scientific and medical research, and supported a variety of other programmes that have ensured the vulnerable are protected. The Kingsbury’s Christmas initiative is one such programme.
The giant decoration, aptly named the Kingsbury Christmas Carriage of Hope, aims to serve as a shining beacon of hope for kids in need. In the true spirit of Christmas, The Kingsbury plans to donate 25,000 books to 25 deserving schools around the island. The hotel will involve its guests and visitors in this worthy cause as well, by donating a book each time someone posts a picture of the Carriage of Hope online and includes @thekingsbury and #ChristmasAtKingsbury in the caption.
The hotel aims to reach 25,000 tags by Christmas so that these little kids will have something to look forward to this season. The hotel wholeheartedly believes that Christmas is a time when we need to reflect on those who may not be able to afford presents under the Christmas tree. Especially during Christmas, philanthropy makes a huge difference to those who are otherwise cast into the shadows, and there’s nothing that embodies Christmas more than being selfless and helping out those in need.
The centrepiece stands tall in the midst of the hotel’s parking lot, and is visible to all passers-by. The carriage, made entirely out of fairy lights, adds just the right touch of magic to the season and quite literally brightens everyone who looks its way.
At the unveiling of the carriage, a countdown took place, with special invitees, the media, hotel guests, and passers-by all watching in awe as the hotel came alive for Christmas. With everyone in high spirits, mulled wine was served to all guests, starting the season off right. A live band too, kept the guests entertained with an array of Christmas carols. All in all, it was a lovely way to welcome the season.
Photos Saman Abesiriwardana