Couple launch drive for kids’ Christmas gifts
PEOPLE are being urged to donate presents to children in need in Southport this Christmas.
Sean Connolly and his fiancee Fiona Aldred have launched a Gifts For Kids At Christmas Appeal.
Hundreds of families in the town will be struggling this year due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the couple are determined to ensure that no child wakes up on Christmas morning without something to look forward to.
They are being supported by local companies including Mighty Radio, Playtown, House of Mojos, Element Hair & Beauty and The Guelder Rose.
Sean, an acclaimed author and the station director of Mighty FM, said: “We have already collected 150 presents, and the appeal only launched on November 1.
“This appeal is a must this year. We did it for the veterans’ kids two years ago in Manchester and we collected 600 presents.
“We would like to get 1,000 this year for our Southport kids.
“We are all well aware of what is happening with regards to the funding for food and meals for some families during this horrible time.
“We also know what that means in respect of a dismal Christmas for a lot of children out there.
“Well Team Santa ain’t going to let that happen!
“This year’s finances are going to be tighter than ever before for some people.
“With the economy the way it is and people losing their jobs, it looks like it could be a dark Christmas for a lot of families out there.
“Some mums and dads will have to concern themselves with feeding their families during the festive period, let alone providing Christmas presents for their children.”
Sean and his fiancee Fiona, an air traffic controller, are determined to put smiles on the faces of Southport children this Christmas.
He is heartened by the huge support he has received already.
He said: “Fee and I and, of course, Santa’s little helpers are begging you, yes you, for your help to ensure that the kids in our town don’t go without.
“We are asking that when you come to clean out the kids’ bedroom before the new presents arrive, you stop for a moment and ask your kids what they would like to wrap up and donate to the children who may go without this year.
“If you could either purchase a toy, or donate an unused or nearly new one from last year, as long as it’s clean, please wrap it up, put M or F (male, female) on the wrapping paper with the age group, 1-3, 3-5, 5-7, 7-9, 9 upwards on it in pen, and we will ensure it goes to a good home!
“We are hoping to have a couple of locations dotted around the town where you will be able to drop the toys and we will pick them up on a regular basis nearer the time.
“We are looking to meet Santa at one or more of the food banks at Christmas and ask him to present the gifts as the children arrive with mum and dad. Alternatively, we will be linking up with some of the generous businesses which are donating free meals and will be doing the same at their premises.
“I know not all of you will be in a position to help this year, but if you are, even if you could donate some wrapping paper, then a child somewhere on this journey will benefit. Please dig deep and remember, don’t throw it out, share it out.
“Finally, if you are not in a position to help at all, please share this announcement.”
If you would like any more information, please email Sean Connolly at: seanscs@btinternet.com