The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Charity seeks help to meet rising tide of families in need
Acharity fighting child poverty in the north-east is desperate for more donations as requests for support from hardpressed families quadruple in the build-up to Christmas. Dyce-based AberNecessities is asking local people and businesses to buy a small gift to go into its Christmas Eve boxes as its stocks run low due to soaring demand.
The charity is aiming to send out the festive packages to more than 3,000 children who would not otherwise celebrate Christmas, along with urgent, basic essentials.
AberNecessities founder Danielle Flecher-Horn said the charity is seeing a rising number of professional working households turning to it for help as the cost-of-living crisis bites.
She said: “Generally, we support over 250 children per month.
“In November and December, applications have soared and we are now being asked for support for 250 children per week.
“It is shocking that, with one in five children in our area living in poverty, there are many, too many, families who cannot afford basic essentials so are not able to celebrate Christmas at all.
“For some children, when they hear the words ‘Happy Christmas’ there is nothing at all to look forward to.
“Our vision is that no child goes without, so with the help of local businesses and local people, we want to ensure every child can experience magic this festive season.”
Danielle added: “The cost-of-living crisis touches us all but is disproportionately affecting families who were already living in poverty.
“We are hearing stories of Christmas being sacrificed in favour of heating and eating.
“It only takes a moment for you to think of your own children on Christmas morning to feel the sadness and heartache of that.
“As always, we are incredibly grateful for the kindness of local businesses and individuals who support us.”
She added: “We are hopeful that in these final weeks we can come together to help make sure no child goes without believing in magic.”
The Christmas Eve boxes contain cosy and festive gifts to help families enjoy the magic of the festive season.
Each child will receive cosy pyjamas, fluffy socks, an activity, storybook, hot chocolate and a mug, and some fun reindeer food, as well as gifts for Christmas Day.
The charity’s Amazon Wish List can be found at amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ ls/2X4YWDA4I5TIT
Donations can also be made at abernecessities. enthuse.com/cf/ believe-in-magic