Hundreds of gifts donated for kids in care in Norfolk this Christmas
Your generosity has made it possible
Last updated 23rd Dec 2020
Two Christmas campaigns run by Norfolk County Council have received a generous response from the people of Norfolk, providing over 800 Christmas presents to children and young people in care.
The giving tree appeal, run in partnership with Waterstones, encourages members of the public to make a donation by buying a tag on the tree in store, with each tag representing a child's Christmas wish and ensuring they have a gift under their tree this Christmas. The campaign is in its fourteenth year, and has proven incredibly popular even in the midst of covid-19.
Every tag on the tree has been purchased, with over 600 gifts having been purchased for children in care across Norfolk.
A second appeal aims to give older children living in supported accommodation vouchers for shops, a Covid-secure alternative to giving gifts directly. Many 16 and 17-year-olds looked after children in supported accommodation will be spending the festive season without their families and without gifts. It's been a difficult year, especially for these young people who may feel more isolated than ever, so your donations could make all the difference.
Over 200 vouchers have been purchased by members of the public, with The Rotary Club of Diss and District giving 20 different vouchers to be distributed, worth a total of £500. One member of the public gave £150, saying that they don't want any child to a miserable Christmas. Local company Sweetzy also pledged to match any vouchers bought on their online store.
Cllr John Fisher, Cabinet Member for Children's Services said:
"These campaigns are another sign of the incredible generosity of the people of Norfolk. Its amazing to see so many people helping to sure ensure that children in care of all ages will receive an extra gift this year, especially after everything 2020 has thrown at us.
"We're so grateful to the support of companies like Waterstones and Sweetzy for supporting these appeals, showing that it's a whole community effort to help support these young people in care. All that's left to say is a huge thank you to everyone who donated!"
Clive Wuidert, President of The Rotary Club of Diss and District, said:
"I'm so proud is of the club continuing their local and international support during this very difficult time for us all. The work of the Club epitomises the Rotary International motto of "Service above Self" and the members look forward to carrying on with their endeavours'.
A spokesperson for Waterstones Norwich said:
"Every year we're honoured to run the Giving Tree scheme with Norfolk County council. As booksellers, bringing the joy of reading to children across the county is incredibly important to us. Despite the particular challenges of 2020, we were thrilled that the continued hard work of the NCC and the generosity of our customers meant that every child nominated for the scheme will receive a present this Christmas."