Following the heartwarming success of last year's Christmas giveaway, two Peterborough mothers are once again appealing to the local community to help provide 1,000 Christmas presents for needy children living in Peterborough.

Organised by city based registered charity Zi Foundation, the initiative aims to ensure that children from disadvantaged families and those facing financial difficulties do not miss out on the excitement and happiness of receiving a Christmas present.

Last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of Peterborough residents and businesses, the charity brought Christmas joy to 1,000 local children at a day-long party in the city centre.

This Christmas, Cllr Iva Banyalieva and Gintare Karin are determined to repeat that success, focusing on children whose families may be struggling to afford Christmas presents.

placeholder image — Iva and Gintare pictured with Zi Foundation volunteers at last year's Christmas Giveaway.

Cllr Banyalieva, co-founder of Zi Foundation, said: "Last Christmas was truly unforgettable. Seeing the excitement on the children's faces, their smiles when meeting Father Christmas and the happiness of receiving a present was something incredibly special.

“As mothers, Gintare and I know how much these little moments mean to children. Unfortunately, we also know that there are families right here in Peterborough who are struggling financially and simply cannot afford Christmas presents for their children.

“This is exactly why we started this initiative. We want to make sure that children in need in our own city feel remembered, valued and included at Christmas.

“We could not have achieved what we did last year without the incredible generosity of the people of Peterborough.

“This year, we are asking everyone to open their hearts once again. Whether you donate one toy, several presents or make a financial contribution, you will be helping us bring happiness to a local child who truly needs it.”

Gintare, Community Manager at Zi Foundation, added: "As a mother, seeing the children's happiness last Christmas was incredibly emotional. No child in Peterborough should feel forgotten at Christmas. With our community's kindness, we can bring joy to another 1,000 children who need our support."

Zi Foundation has officially started collecting new or barely used toys and Christmas presents in excellent condition. All donated presents will be distributed through the charity's Christmas initiative to children in need across Peterborough.

Donations can be delivered to either of the following collection points: Pearl Hotel – 77 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 2SH; Kaimas Restaurant – 561–563 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 2PB

For residents unable to travel to the collection points, Zi Foundation volunteers can also arrange to collect donated presents directly from their homes.

Financial donations are equally welcome and will help the charity purchase additional presents for children of different ages. Anyone wishing to contribute financially can contact Zi Foundation directly to receive the charity's bank details.

The main event – the Christmas giveaway – will take place on Saturday, 19 December at St John's Church, in Cathedral Square. Families wishing to receive support will be able to register in advance, with full registration information and details of the process announced at the beginning of December.