WATCH: Gemma Atkinson Backs Mission Christmas

Key 103 launch 2017’s Mission Christmas appeal and invited listeners and locals to buy one extra gift to help thousands of disadvantaged children in Greater Manchester.

The largest Christmas toy appeal in the UK, Mission Christmas is an annual campaign run by Cash For Kids which is supported by Bauer Radio’s regional stations, including Key 103.

In 2016 the appeal generated upwards of £15million in gifts and donations which were distributed to more than 350,000 disadvantaged kids across the UK – with 61,873 of recipients in Greater Manchester.

“What was achieved by our generous listeners last year was truly amazing and I know we can do even better this year. Even one child living in poverty is too many but with thousands in Greater Manchester in that position Mission Christmas gives everyone the opportunity to make a real difference.

“It’s easy to take part, all you need to do is buy one extra gift before December 17 and hand it in to one of our many collection points, alternatively you can text ‘MISSION’ 70808 to donate £5 and we will buy a gift on your behalf. Let’s make 2016’s Mission Christmas our biggest and best ever and bring a little cheer to the children who need it most.”

Supporters of the campaign can take their gifts to a number of drop-off points which you’ll find listed on the Key 103 website. This year Manchester’s Mission HQ, which acts as a hub for the receipt, sorting and distribution of gifts, is at Unit 5 Bond Street Industrial Estate, Mancunian Way, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M12 6HW (access via Hoyle Street). Mission Christmas is proudly supported by B&M and thousands of volunteers who assist with the sorting and distribution of gifts.

A B&M spokeswoman, said: “We’re really proud to be supporting the Mission Christmas campaign again this year! Last year we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our customers and we’re looking forward to collecting even more gifts this year to make sure we can help Santa get presents to every child in time for Christmas morning.”

Gemma Atkinson who is a patron for Cash for Kids, said: "Mission Christmas is a great campaign and I am proud to get behind it, no child should go without that special Christmas feeling and all it takes is a small act of kindness to make a child’s day great."

Those listeners who don’t have time to shop can text KEY to 70808 to make a £5 donation to the appeal. (Calls cost Standard network rate and 100% of the donation goes to CFK).

Cash For Kids works with thousands of grass-root organisations across the UK who support disadvantaged children (0 – 18 years). Mission Christmas works closely with social workers, head teachers and the emergency services who will nominate families in crisis to be supported by the appeal.

Organisations nominate the children they support, highlighting their age, gender and any special needs. Cash For Kids therefore knows how many children Mission Christmas is hoping to support and what age groups may be struggling for gifts throughout the appeal.

Find out more about Mission Christmas and how you can get involved here.

• Gemma Atkinson
• Mike Toolan