LOCAL families will receive Christmas gifts thanks to donations from local charities.
Staffordshire County Council’s Family Hubs have been working with organisations to help support vulnerable families.
Gifts set to be handed out include children’s toys, books, games, toiletries and clothes.
Local charity A Child’s Heart have been collecting and wrapping thousands of presents to be given out – with around 18,000 gifts set to be opened by youngsters on Christmas morning.
Cllr Nick Lakin, cabinet member for children and young people at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“Our Christmas gift appeal is something that our staff look forward to every year and one that benefits hundreds of local families right across the county.
“For many children, presents at Christmas time is a given – but for some of our more vulnerable families, Christmas and the associated costs can be a real challenge. This is where our Family Hubs, working with local charities, can step in to help make sure children have something waiting for them when they wake up on Christmas Day.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has donated gifts and a special shout out to A Child’s Heart who have been outstanding with their collections.
“Thanks to the kind efforts of all concerned, we’re able to spread a little more Christmas cheer to Staffordshire families.”
Lichfield Family Hub received more than 70 Christmas gift bags from A Child’s Heart. More than 20 food hampers from a local business have also been donated and are on their way to families.
Julie Armstrong, from A Child’s Heart, said:
“Each year, it amazes us how many children are in care or a vulnerable situation through circumstances beyond their control. While we can’t change these kids’ lives, we can at least put a smile on their faces during Christmas.
“This year has been our biggest year to date, with just under 1,700 sacks of toys being distributed across the Midlands and Staffordshire.
“We would like to thank all the sponsors, gift givers and elves that have helped make this all possible.”
