Working Together
Kind-hearted residents, businesses and organisations across North Ayrshire are being asked to help make this Christmas a special one for families less fortunate.
The message comes as North Ayrshire Council launches is Christmas Gift Appeal to support local families struggling this festive season.
The Christmas Gift Appeal will run from Thursday 19 November to Tuesday 15 December. Its aim is to give gifts to families who, for a range of reasons, are not able to give their children a Christmas that most of us take for granted.
North Ayrshire’s Health and Social Care Partnership will identify those who are in greatest need of support.
Items are being sought for all ages, including:
- Toys (children)
- Books (all ages)
- High street vouchers (teenagers)
- Christmas treats eg. selection boxes/sweets (all ages)
- Supermarket vouchers (parents/carers)
Donations can be dropped off at any local library on Tuesdays, between 2-4pm or Thursdays, between 10am-12noon. Items will then be stored for 72 hours, as per quarantine arrangements.
All gifts will be redistributed in the local area and any donations of Christmas treats such as selection boxes, sweets and tins of chocolate, will be sent to North Ayrshire Foodbank for inclusion in their Christmas Hampers.
Drop Off Points
All donations should be dropped off unwrapped, so that Council staff can determine the most suitable age group to receive the gift.
North Ayrshire’s Provost:
Provost Ian Clarkson said: “We know that many families across our communities are struggling financially, now more than ever due to the Covid-19 pandemic. And with Christmas just around the corner, this can turn what should be a joyous occasion in to a stressful one for those parents and carers trying to make ends meet.
“That’s why we have launched our Christmas Gift Appeal. We are calling on our residents and businesses to spare a thought for those less fortunate and, where possible, donate to the appeal.
“Each contribution will go a long way in making a real difference to someone’s Christmas who otherwise may receive very little.”
