‘They wake on Christmas morning with nothing, they don’t get Christmas dinner, just a pack of crisps’

A heartwarming Christmas appeal has been launched by Wales Online to support families in need during the festive season. The appeal aims to provide gifts to children who may otherwise wake up on Christmas morning with nothing but a pack of crisps for dinner.

It all started eight years ago when a community centre in the Rhondda Valley was approached for help in providing Christmas presents to children from struggling families. Fast forward to 2023, the demand has increased significantly, with the centre giving out 500 gifts to those in need. Requests for assistance pour in from schools, social services, families in refuges, and directly to the staff of the community centre.

The generosity of people and businesses donating gifts has dwindled, making the support from Wales Online readers crucial. Last year, many gifts came from readers who participated in the Christmas appeal. This year, with a projected surge in demand for help, Wales Online has launched an Amazon wishlist, allowing contributors to purchase items that will be sent directly to the centre for distribution to children in need.

The community centre not only provides Christmas gifts but also offers support throughout the year. Families facing financial hardships can access a top-up shop where essential items like food, nappies, toiletries, and clothing are available at minimal prices. The centre also anticipates an increase in demand for food during the school holidays, as some children may go without a hot meal.

To support the Christmas appeal, donors can either purchase items from the Amazon wishlist or drop off new and unopened items, including non-perishable food, at the Wales Online office in Cardiff. Last year, the centre also distributed Christmas hampers to families, ensuring they could enjoy a special meal together.

The staff at the community centre anticipate a larger demand for help this year, as more working families find themselves in need of assistance due to job losses and the rising cost of living. Despite the challenges, the centre remains dedicated to providing a welcoming and stigma-free environment for those seeking help.

The community centre’s manager, Rachel Evans, acknowledges the importance of the support they provide, ensuring that families in crisis have access to essential resources and gifts for their children. As the holiday season approaches, the Christmas appeal aims to bring joy and relief to families facing adversity, demonstrating the power of community support and generosity.

The spirit of giving shines brightly through initiatives like the Wales Online Christmas appeal, reminding us all of the impact of small acts of kindness during the festive season. As we come together to support those in need, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of families experiencing hardship this Christmas.