This Christmas, we asked families about the challenges they were facing. Many told us they were struggling to afford the essentials, with 1 in 4 saying they couldn’t afford food. Over half said Christmas felt less magical because of the financial pressures. 1 in 6 couldn’t even afford a single present for their children.
Our Corporate Supporters made sure families didn’t go without…
Thanks to the incredible support from 120 companies, we spread Christmas joy at 83 Family Action services across England and Wales. Our Corporate Supporters helped us to deliver over 10,000 presents to children, young people and adults with special educational needs and disabilities.
Being part of the Toy Appeal over the past few years has been an incredibly heartwarming and rewarding experience. The initiative has not only brought immense joy to the children and families who receive the gifts, but it has also created a sense of unity and shared purpose among the Barclays team. Knowing that our efforts contribute to making someone’s festive period a little brighter fills us with pride and happiness. It’s a testament to the power of collective goodwill and the difference we can make when we come together for a common cause.
Claire Hogg, Global Projects & Toy Appeal lead at Barclays.
The celebrations made possible…
With support from our Corporate Supporters, Family Action services and FOOD Clubs could plan festive celebrations across the country – Santa’s grottos, Christmas parties, heartwarming nativities, and even breakfast with Santa.
Where families couldn’t make it to events, we made sure presents and festive treats were delivered directly to their homes. Families we support experienced the magic of Christmas in a way that felt personal and inclusive.
Family Action’s Toy Appeal brings colleagues across our CVC London offices together and reflects our commitment to supporting the communities we serve. We’re proud to work alongside Family Action on this initiative to support families during the festive season.
Jane Howard, Vice President of Philanthropy at CVC.
Christmas joy in action
Our services created special moments: including hot chocolate with marshmallows, Christmas crafts, baking sessions, discos and even a snow machine!
Toy Appeal donations meant we could deliver customised hampers to young carers, and reach children living in temporary accommodation – making sure no-one felt forgotten during the festive season.
The families we support need someone in their corner all year round, long after the tinsel comes down. The support and generosity from our Corporate Supporters helps us to continue to support, encourage, and connect with people when they need it most all year round.
It’s a reminder that not everything is bad… it’s not such a bad world after all.
Jorja, mum of two from Medway.
