With Christmas fast approaching, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene have honoured a beloved tradition in the Principality by spending the day visiting several establishments associated with the Monaco Red Cross. As President and Vice-President of the organisation, the couple dedicated their morning to engaging with beneficiaries young and old, and distributing gifts and festive packages collected by the charity.

The Princely Couple’s tour on Thursday 12th December began in Fontvieille at the Rosine Sanmori Daycare Centre, where the couple attended a children’s performance before handing out presents to the little ones. They then travelled to Rue Bellevue to visit the Foyer Princesse Charlène, where young residents of the centre enjoyed a meaningful encounter with the Prince and Princess.

The final stop of the day brought them together with Monaco Red Cross volunteers and around 50 senior citizens who receive support through the organisation’s social services. This year, the event, which is typically held at the Red Cross headquarters, was hosted in the Yacht Club de Monaco’s reception hall. During the gathering, the seniors had the opportunity to connect with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene, as well as Camille Gottlieb, the Prince’s niece, who joined the couple in presenting gifts to the beneficiaries and handing out greeting cards made by the children at the Rosine Sanmori Daycare Centre.

In keeping with their seasonal efforts, the Monaco Red Cross has distributed 130 gifts and 247 parcels, including over 100 in nearby municipalities, to those in need. Holiday packages were also delivered to inmates at the Maison d’Arrêt.

The Monaco Red Cross’ festive activities are set to continue over the coming days, with visits planned for retirement homes across Monaco, the Princess Grace Hospital and the Rainier III Centre.

To see more photos from the day, click on the images below:

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Photos credits: Eric Mathon / Palais Princier de Monaco / Croix Rouge Monaco