Northern Ireland’s largest gift appeal Mission Christmas is back & EVEN BIGGER

With 1 in 4 children living in poverty, increasing from 1 in 5 from last year, the team behind, Cool FM/Downtown Radio’s Cash for Kids are reporting record numbers of applications for gifts this year and are asking businesses, schools and organisations to get involved in Northern Ireland’s largest gift appeal, helping to ensure no child wakes up without gifts on Christmas morning

Sponsored by Harry Corry, the Mission Christmas campaign has been instrumental in helping struggling families across the province. Local charities, community groups and social workers rely heavily on the appeal to help make Christmas more bearable for the children in their care.

Last year 20,000 children benefited from Mission Christmas and given how this year even more children are living in poverty, Cash for Kids is asking for everyone to help them reach their goal.

Cash for Kids Charity Manager, Clare McGimpsey explains that; “Local families are feeling the pinch more than ever right now, with some struggling to cope in the face of extreme financial hardship. Christmas presents are often a luxury they simply can’t afford.

“Every single donation we receive makes a difference, and no donation is too small. We urge our supporters to dig deep and donate what they can. We always struggle with gifts for teenagers, who are often forgotten at Christmas, with a real gap in gifts donated for boys. Gifts such as headphones, Bluetooth speakers, hot water bottles, boardgames, crafts, puzzles, footballs and un-sized clothing like beanies and sports socks are great options.

We also greatly appreciate cash donations as we use the money donated to buy age-appropriate gifts to meet evolving demand – which can change on a daily basis the closer we get to Christmas.”

Harry Corry is central to the success of the appeal as donations can be dropped off at any of their stores across Northern Ireland. A full list of drop-off points are listed on the Cash for Kids website. The last day to drop your gift off is Wednesday 18th December but we urge you to donate as early as you can.

Marketing Manager, Mark Corry, said:

“Being part of ‘Mission Christmas’ really makes the festive season so special for everyone in Harry Corry. It’s incredible what Cash for Kids accomplish every year with the help from those who support this vitally important campaign. We are so thankful for every single donation.

“Times are tight for everyone, but if you can donate a little, it can make a huge difference to another family’s Christmas.”

For further information on drop-off locations in Northern Ireland, or gift inspiration, please visit the Cash for Kids website. Those who don’t have time to shop can still support the appeal by purchasing a gift online at coolfm.co.uk/mission and downtown.co.uk/mission

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