Pupils in Co Down have been showing their kindness by sending post to isolated and lonely elderly residents in Bangor.
Students from Rathmore Primary School, who remained in class as children of key workers during this time, have been sending thoughtful letters and pictures to the elderly.
The reason for this was to uplift them and give them someone to talk to during such a hard time.
The school teamed up with staff from The Savoy in Bangor, which is an independent living scheme ran by Clanmil Housing.
Linzi Webb, Good Relations Officer at Clanmil said although self-isolation has been vitally important, it has been particularly hard for the older people there.
Residents were finding it extremely difficult not being able to see their children and grandchildren, so the kindness from the children really 'made a difference' to those who needed it.
Linzi told Belfast Live : "During lockdown we have been working in partnership with local charities to provide Clanmil tenants who were shielding with food parcels.
"It became really apparent to me that although some people needed support with food many more were finding self-isolation the biggest challenge.
"Not being able to have visits from family or attend their local clubs/activities was proving difficult.
"My son attends Rathmore Primary school and earlier in the year his class completed a project on iconic buildings in Bangor. The Savoy was one of the buildings they showcased.
"The artwork has been put up around The Savoy for everyone to enjoy and letters have been passed on to tenants.
"Our tenants have really enjoyed receiving post from the children and it has given them a real boost. Some tenants and staff have replied to thank the children for the letters and art.
"Clanmil would also like to send a big thank you to all the children at Rathmore primary for their kindness and for making a real difference in the lives of our older people at this very difficult time.
"The Little Red Post Box remains open over the summer. We hope the children will write in and tell our residents what they have been enjoying over the summer and share more of their beautiful artwork."
Rathmore Primary School has remained open for keyworkers’ children since March, along with their older siblings.
Principal Julie Hardy told Belfast Live the children got an opportunity to write, draw and 'create poetry with purpose' and for 'such an appreciative audience'.
She said: "They all have grandparents and great grandparents who they haven’t been able to visit so were excited to get involved with Linzi’s idea.
"Throughout lockdown the children have been unable to play with their own friends and can now completely empathise with a sense of isolation and feeling a bit lonely some days.
"Even the youngest children completely understood that posting a letter or picture in The Little Red Post Box would bring smiles to the Savoy residents.
"We have been calling the post ‘sunshine in an envelope’ and we know from resident's replies just how valued they have been.
"This short project has reminded us all that regardless of our age, we can all participate in small acts of kindness that bring smiles to the giver and receiver."
