Record number of gifts donated to families in need across Peterborough area thanks to charity appeal
A record number of presents were delivered to families in need across the Peterborough area this Christmas – thanks to a special appeal.
The Giving Tree Appeal – part of North West Anglia Hospitals' Charity - celebrated its 10th anniversary supporting less advantaged children and youngsters by providing them with Christmas gifts.
Around 7,000 presents were donated by generous supporters and delivered to families across Peterborough, Huntingdon and Fenland - making it the most successful year to date, and exceeding the 6,000 gifts from the previous year’s appeal.
Donations from staff, hospitals visitors, individuals and local businesses meant that children of all ages woke up to multiple gifts on Christmas morning.
The appeal began at Hinchingbrooke Hospital back in 2015, with 50 presents being donated and delivered. The idea for the appeal came from Trust Site Senior Manager Natalie Styles-Hudson.
She said: “This year, we have been completely overwhelmed by the incredible support and generosity of our hospitals and local community. We have received a wonderful array of gifts through the Giving Tree tags, the Amazon wish list, and monetary donations, which have been particularly helpful in enabling us to purchase an increasing number of sensory toys.
“Donations have included books, dolls, train sets, games and craft kits, to name just a few. Perhaps the most unique gift of all was the sponsorship of a Shetland pony named Bennie, donated to a 16 year-old with additional needs living in a care home.
“Thanks to this amazing support, the Christmas Giving Tree has been able to reach even further this year, supporting more children and families across our community.”
She added: “The team delivered gifts to less advantaged children and young people in schools, hostels, and domestic abuse refuges across Peterborough, Huntingdon, and Fenland. Every single person who has supported the appeal has helped to brighten Christmas for young people facing challenging circumstances."
Natalie added: “We have heard some real stories of hardship this year, with Christmas time being a real challenge for many. A huge thank you from everyone involved with the Appeal to all who have supported in some way.”