Amy Whittle shows true spirit of Christmas by delivering presents to homeless people

Amy Whittle giving Christmas presents to homeless people in Manchester

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Amy Whittle, from Milnrow, spread Christmas joy to Manchester’s rough-sleepers by creating and hand-delivering gifts to twenty homeless people.

Amy, age 10, was deeply moved when she saw the homeless camp on Oxford Road in Manchester a few weeks before Christmas, and decided to create gifts for as many of them as she could.

With the help of friends and family, Amy made up 20 parcels each containing a towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, shampoo, shower gel, socks, candy canes, Christmas cake and a selection box. It was important to Amy that the presents were practical as well as a treat. 

Amy took to the streets between Oxford Road, Piccadilly and Cross Street in Manchester on 23 December and chatted with the homeless people there and handed out gifts. Amy also donated scarves and coats to those who needed them. Many shook Amy’s hand to say thank you and wished her a Merry Christmas.

Amy said: “When we drove past the homeless camp on Oxford Road, I was really upset that people wouldn’t be with their families and wouldn’t get a present. I asked if we could get some presents and give them out. I was nervous at first going over to speak to them but they were really nice. They were grateful, and I was happy that I had helped.”

Sarah Whittle, Amy’s mum, said: “We are so proud of Amy and the kind young lady she is growing up to be. She was moved by the situation others were in and wanted to make a difference. We definitely think she did! And she has already asked if she can do it again this year.”

Amy is a member of 27th Rochdale Brownies and in recognition of her kindness, District Commissioner Vikki Long, presented Amy with the ‘Girlguiding Lancashire South East County Award for Young Members’ at her Brownie Pack in front of her Brownie friends.

County Commissioner, Lynne Scales said: “Brownies are asked to think of others before themselves and do a good turn everyday – and Amy has proved to be a fantastic Brownie! She certainly deserves special recognition for this incredible act of kindness.”

Carole Holland, Leader of the Brownie Pack which meets at Crossgates School, Milnrow, said: “I am amazed and proud that Amy cared enough to put these parcels together, and to show such empathy. What a very thoughtful and caring Brownie.”

Amy has also been invited to the homeless shelter in Manchester to see those she gave presents to.