One Community Christmas Appeal aims to help Whitworth primary school children

Over the last few weeks, a keen group of volunteers across Whitworth and surrounding areas have come together to ensure more than 800 children in the community receive a gift this year.

This year, The Women of Whitworth Project has launched the One Community Christmas Appeal for local children.

The One Community Christmas Appeal is receiving donations for children aged 4-11 of hats, gloves and new toys from local residents and businesses and working with The Lighthouse Foodshare in Whitworth to ensure that families receive food parcels over the next few months.

As part of the appeal, six-year-old Leo Poulter and his mum, Samantha, have collected hundreds of selection boxes, which will be distributed to children in Whitworth primary schools.

They are hoping to have 800 boxes by 12 December, so that every child will have one.

The idea for the scheme came to Samantha during the October half term at an event organised by Basil's to provide free school meals.

Kind-hearted Leo had decided to help families who are less fortunate by helping distribute presents. Earlier this year, he helped spread some sunny cheer to local residents by giving away free sunflowers.
 

Read more: Whitworth boy spreads happiness by giving away sunflowersPublished: 03 June 2020

Kimberley Ashworth, founder of The Women of Whitworth Project, said: “So many children have been affected by the pandemic this year, that we wanted to ensure they receive a much needed treat at the end of the year.”

A local primary school teacher said:  said “The generosity of the local community has been overwhelming and we are so proud of how everyone has pulled together over the last few weeks and months.”

Kimberley added: “Special thanks goes to Leo Poulter for collecting selection boxes which will be used as part of the Christmas Appeal.”

Leo’s mum Samantha said: “It’s been so uncertain this year and the thought of not being able to celebrate Christmas is incredibly sad.

“Money’s tight for a lot of people so to lose 20% of your income, and still be expected to pay the bills is a heavy burden, so we want to help.”

People have been sending in cash donations, dropping donations off, obeying social distancing guidelines at Saints and Sinners Cafe and Whitworth Lighthouse Community.

Further details can be found on the Women of Whitworth Project Facebook page.

You can make a monetary donation via GoFundMe here:

• www.gofundme.com/f/one-community-christmas-appeal

Alternatively, you can purchase a gift for a child directly through Amazon:

• www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/1DURWA8WK8JZU?ref_=wl_share