Somebody Cares Launches Heart-warming Christmas Campaign to Support Local Families in Need

With the festive season approaching, Somebody Cares is launching its 2024 Christmas Campaign, bringing joy and crucial support to local families in need. Last year, thanks to the generosity of the community, Somebody Cares delivered over 43,000 meals to families facing hardship. With multiple initiatives designed to engage people of all ages, this year’s campaign is set to spread even more Christmas cheer and make a real difference in the lives of local families.

This year’s campaign includes five key initiatives, each offering a unique opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to contribute to the cause:

Reverse Advent Calendar

The festive fun has already started with this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar, which launched on the 7th of November. For 24 days, counting down to the end of November, every day a new item to donate—ranging from cereal to tinned goods— will be featured on the Somebody Cares Facebook & Instagram stories. Whether you contribute a little each day or donate all at once, every offering counts. If you’ve missed a day, don’t worry—download the full list of items here and join in whenever you can.

Christmas Hamper Drive

Individuals, groups, and workplaces are encouraged to come together and donate Christmas hampers filled with food, treats, and other festive essentials so no one has to go without this festive season. A downloadable list of suggested hamper items is available here.

Alternative Gift Vouchers

Not sure what to get the person who has everything? Instead of traditional gifts, why not try an Alternative Gift Voucher, available to purchase from the Somebody Cares Online Store. Vouchers, starting at just ￡5, allow you to provide essential support to local families. From a Festive Family Food Parcel to a Children’s Christmas Eve Bag, these gifts make a lasting impact, bringing joy and comfort to those in need.

Giving Tree

The Somebody Cares store on Denmore Road will host a Giving Tree from the 25th of November, where you can choose a tag with a child’s name and age. By purchasing a gift and returning it to the store you can ensure that every child wakes up with a present on Christmas morning.

Teddy Bear ‘Elf-on-the-Shelf’

Starting December 1st, follow our mascot teddy bear as he embarks on daily adventures, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the campaign’s efforts and showcasing how the community can help. Follow his journey on Instagram and Facebook Stories and get inspired to take part in the fun!

“Christmas is a time to come together and share with those who need it most,” says COO Alison Topley. “Our goal is to provide multiple ways for the community to get involved, whether it's donating a hamper, picking a tag from a Giving Tree, or purchasing an Alternative Gift Voucher. Every act of kindness helps make the season brighter for local families.”

Somebody Cares’ Christmas Campaign is a heart-warming reminder of the power of community. With various ways to participate, everyone has the opportunity to make a difference this festive season. By working together, we can ensure that no family goes without the joy, warmth, and hope that Christmas brings.

For more information or to get involved, email [email protected] or contact them at 01224 460700.