Christmas saved after generous donations

CHRISTMAS was saved thanks to the generosity of people and organizations across North East Lincolnshire.

Gifts have arrived to make Christmas extra special for many vulnerable children and families in North East Lincolnshire.

North East Lincolnshire officials have collected hundreds of gifts donated by members of the public and organizations giving gifts to children in the council’s care (children in care), children and families who are homeless this Christmas and live in shelters, and children who have left the care of the council but are on their own this Christmas.

A photo of the Saying Close team with their gift boxes — The Staying Close team prepares gifts for care leavers and their families

Bags of gifts for those who work with juvenile justice — The Staying Close team prepares gifts for care leavers and their families

Viking FM’s Cash for Kids campaign has donated hundreds of gifts, including fragrance kits and toiletries, to our Care Leavers – young people who have spent time in the care of the council but have since left care. Many of these young people are now living alone for the first time this Christmas. These gifts are placed in Christmas Eve bags for each youngster.

There are also toys gifted to the team by the Council’s Grounds Maintenance Team.

Grimsby company DeeBees have donated lots of goodies to help put together Christmas baskets for children working with the Council’s Juvenile Justice Service. The baskets include chicken, pigs in blankets and vegetables, puddings and selection boxes.

The Council’s Homeless Prevention Service has also collected gifts for children and young people currently living in shelters across the county.

A total of 59 children are expected to be housed in such shelters over the festive period and the team have been busy wrapping gifts donated by CARE, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) and Council staff to ensure every child has something on open on Christmas Day.

Councilor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio owner for Children and Education at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “This year should be a time of joy and happiness, but we know many are not able to enjoy it in the warmth and comfort of their own home or with a lot of family around them.

“With the help and generosity of local businesses, members of the public and council officials, we have wrapped many gifts for those who may not be able to spend time at home or with family.”