Christmas gift appeal launches to support Buckinghamshire’s children
The appeal is now in its seventh year
Now in its seventh year, the appeal is a big drive to give Christmas presents to vulnerable children in Buckinghamshire who otherwise might not receive much – or anything – at Christmas.
Last year the new Buckinghamshire Council took over hosting the appeal from the former county council. And, like last year, the effects of Coronavirus restrictions accentuate the need for this popular seasonal campaign.
Last Christmas almost 1,200 Christmas gifts were presented to children, young people and families with disadvantaged backgrounds. Funds also allowed birthday presents to be given throughout the year.
This year Inspire Bucks chairman Paul Irwin says that the disruptive effects of the Coronavirus pandemic make it all the more important to ensure children in crisis or need have a happy Christmas.
He said: “These Christmas gifts go directly to very vulnerable children here in our county, and I’ve seen the wonderful difference this makes to their families.
“Thanks to the fantastic generosity last year, Christmas was a time of cheer for these families. This year I’m asking the people of Buckinghamshire to pull out the stops again!”
In the interests of safety, he says, the appeal is inviting donations of money online via the charity’s GoFundMe page.
As in previous years, the Inspire Bucks Christmas gift appeal will work closely with Buckinghamshire Council’s social care teams to ensure gifts get to the right families, and that no one is left out.
Anita Cranmer, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “The Inspire Bucks Appeal will make a huge difference to the hundreds of children that the Council works directly with through Social Services. In addition the appeal will brighten Christmas for the wider group of children whose families have been in difficulties in the past year. It is inspiring to be able to give care and gifts through the enthusiastic and generous work of this Charity.”
Paul said gifts of money would ensure suitable presents could be bought for all ages, including children with additional needs and disabilities, older children and young people leaving the Council’s care.
The Inspire Bucks charity was officially registered with the Charities Commission in 2021. It is operated by volunteers and will now run the Christmas gift appeal and, through its wider ambitions, will strive to help children, young people and their families in other ways.
Paul said: “We want to widen our support even further and I’m excited about the potential our registered charity status gives for growth in supporting children and young people to have equality of opportunities in life and also creating ways to support them in achieving their potential – all in addition to the crucial work that the statutory agencies are doing.”