Shopping mall launches Christmas Giving Tree
In 2020, the centre managed to raise nearly £ 20,000 in presents for children
ASHOPPING centre in Glasgow has announced it will be running a popular Christmas initiative for the fifth consecutive year. The Forge’s Giving Tree will see funds raised to buy Christmas presents and food for children from the local community’s poorest households; children who may otherwise receive nothing this year.
Jade Wilkie, marketing manager at The Forge, said: “We’re all more than aware of the financial issues our nation is currently facing.
“Christmas can be an economically tough time for many families even without a recession. No child should have to go without presents or food during what should be such a joyous occasion, and no parent should have to feel like they’ve failed.
“The Forge Giving Tree was created to ensure that everybody gets the chance to have a brilliant Christmas despite the ongoing issues. Now, more than ever, our community needs to pull together and help each other out where we can. This is the perfect way to do exactly that.”
In previous years, the campaign has seen resounding success.
The Forge has been able to help more than 1630 families, 880 children and in 2020, raised more than £ 18,500 in gifts.
The shopping centre received so many donations that its warehouse struggled to house them all. Thousands of gifts lined the walls and covered the floor before making their way to grateful families, thanks to the help of local charity With Kids.
This year, to ensure the warehouse can cope with the demand while simultaneously helping parents feel more in control, the shopping centre has introduced a gift card scheme.
Shoppers and visitors will have the opportunity to provide a gift card to help buy a child’s present and/ or food shopping voucher. Jade added: “Receiving handouts can be difficult for many people, which is why we’re hoping that the new gift card project will make them feel better about accepting help from the community.
“Instead of receiving a toy or food item that a stranger has generously purchased, the parents can do the shopping part themselves, which will make the situation feel much more personal.
“We just want people to understand that times are tough right now and they’re not alone. There’s no shame in leaning on the community.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has donated in previous years, and a huge thank you in advance to those who will be contributing this year. You have no idea just how much you’re going to help a family in need.”