An Aberdeen charity is asking for help to ensure children don’t go without this winter.
Home-Start Aberdeen’s Cosy Up for Christmas appeal aims to help struggling families, by providing new warm coats, pyjamas, toys and books.
The charity supports about 200 families every year, and more than 300 children aged up to five.
But the cost-of-living crisis means demand has soared, and the charity is urging individuals and businesses to help meet those cries for help this winter.
General manager Eleanor McEwan said: “Many of the families we help rely on second hand clothing and toys throughout the year, particularly in the current economic climate which has forced the price of many everyday items out of reach.
“Our Cosy Up for Christmas appeal is about providing something new for families who are struggling this winter – from cosy coats and warm pyjamas to new toys and books.”
Cosy Up packs will make ‘big difference’
Home-Start Aberdeen, which has been helping prevent family crisis and breakdown for more than 30 years, is appealing for the following donations:
- New warm coats for ages 1-5 years
- New all-in-one winter suits for ages 0-1
- New pyjamas and sleep suits for ages 0-5
- New book for ages 0-5 years
- New toys for ages 0-5 years
Donations can be made up until November 18, which will allow the staff and volunteers time to arrange the Cosy Up packs and deliver them for Christmas.
To get involved, drop off your donations at the Home-Start charity shop at 101 George Street.
Mrs McEwan added: “Receiving these items will make a big difference for local families at Christmas and during the cold winter months.
“We would appreciate any donation – large or small, you will be helping us create the Christmas every child deserves with your gift.”
How else can you help?
Last month, the charity launched a search for more trustees to join its board.
The charity is seeking individuals who hold different expertise so they can help even more families as demand continues to rise.
Families supported by Home-Start Aberdeen have at least one child under the age of five and are typically affected by social isolation, bereavement, relationship problems, illness, disability or financial hardship.
Home-Start has said professionals from a range of backgrounds including financial, legal, retail, commercial, IT or HR would be “invaluable” to provide additional guidance.
Those involved would only be required to attend six meetings a year. To find out more, e-mail chair@homestartaberdeen.org.uk
Conversation