Cash for Kids: Royal seal of approval for Mission Christmas
Duke of Edinburgh in Belfast to see the work of Cash for Kids NI
Last updated 13th Dec 2024
The Duke of Edinburgh was in Belfast today (Thursday) to see the work of Cash for Kids - Northern Ireland's largest gift appeal - and give the charity a welcome festive boost.
Prince Edward toured the charity's Mission Christmas headquarters and met volunteers - and then helped pack gift boxes.
With 1 in 4 children now living in poverty, the charity is working round the clock to ensure no child in Northern Ireland wakes up without a gift on Christmas morning.
The Royal visit was timely as there is only one week remaining for people to deliver their gifts or make a cash donation to the Mission Christmas appeal.
And with requests and applications hitting an all-time high, the Prince Edward's interest in the charity and the team of volunteers who make the magic happen, was both a huge surprise and a welcome boost.
Claire McGimpsey, Charity Manager, Cash for Kids NI was delighted to take him on a tour of Mission Christmas HQ and explain what’s involved in the collection, sorting and distribution process.
“We’re over the moon that the Duke of Edinburgh is so interested in our important campaign and appreciated the chance to help him better understand how Cash for Kids can be transformative for so many children and young people at Christmas.
“We’re now on our final countdown, and his involvement will give the charity a much-needed boost as we strive to reach our target of supporting the 18,000+ children who are living in poverty across our local communities.”
Sally Aitchison MBE, Managing Director of Cash for Kids added: “This has been a very special day for all involved in Mission Christmas, and is a great tribute to the work of the charity, our donors, sponsors, and amazing volunteers.
“Processing and administering gifts for 20,000 children requires a huge team effort and we thank Prince Edward for playing his part in making Christmas magical for so many.”
Hazelwood Integrated College in North Belfast is one of the schools which benefits from the Cash for Kids donations.
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