In the news: A Christmas miracle! Basildon's Christmas gift drive supports hundreds of local families in temporary accommodation and beyond

The initiative, led by Basildon Council, provided toys, gifts, and hampers to children spending Christmas in temporary accommodation, as well as single parents and vulnerable adults facing hardship.

The drive, which ran from 15 November until 13 December, received an overwhelming response, with thousands of donations flooding in from residents, community groups and local businesses over the four-week initiative.

Several businesses also made generous financial donations to the drive, which the council used to buy gifts through the dedicated Amazon wish list. Many of the businesses who donated joined the Leader of Basildon Council, Councillor Gavin Callaghan for a short presentation at the Basildon Centre on Monday 16 December to thank them for their contribution.

With the gift drive now closed and presents counted, a special Christmas party has been arranged for families to receive their gifts and enjoy some festive fun. The party has been organised and funded by ATF, a local community group specialising in getting local communities active throughout the year.

Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Leader of Basildon Council, expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed, he said: "I am blown away by the generosity of our communities. Thanks to the kindness of local residents and businesses, this year's gift drive has been a huge success with over 5,000 gifts donated. 

"Right now, many families in Basildon are facing extraordinary challenges. We have hundreds of families in temporary accommodation that will spend Christmas day in one room with their parents and siblings, with no access to a kitchen to cook a Christmas dinner. Your contributions will ensure that these children have a special gift to wake up to on Christmas morning. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated."  

Stuart Long, Chief Executive Officer at ATF said: "Thanks to the incredible generosity of our local communities, this special event will offer much-needed support to families in need this festive season. For many, Christmas can be a challenging time, particularly for those facing temporary accommodation. We're proud to be part of an initiative that brings the community together - creating a special moment of celebration and connection to ensure that every family in Basildon has a brighter Christmas."  

The festive season can be a particularly difficult time for families already struggling with hardship. Living in temporary accommodation can feel isolating and overwhelming, particularly for children who, at this time of year, should be enjoying the magic of the season.  

Councillor Callaghan added: "Every single donation has made a difference. I would like to personally thank those who have taken the time to donate, whether it was a toy, a hamper, or a thoughtful gift. Together, we've shown that when we come together as a community, we can have a real and meaningful impact on those in need.  

"The need to continue to support residents through the cost-of-living crisis has been something my administration has been acutely focused on since we came to power in May. Whether it's the Warm Homes Guarantee, the Education Essentials Grant or the Christmas Gift drive, we're delivering on our promise." 

Ends

Published 16 December 2024.

 

Notes to editor:   

Businesses who donated to the gift drive: 

• Emerson Crane Hire 

• Provide CIC 

• AVL Powertrain Ltd 

• CDA Technologies 

• Galliard Homes 

• The Consortium 

• Morgan Sindall 

• Palmers Law 

• PSW Building Consultancy 

• Stonebond 

• Altair 

• DJPS Sprinklers 

• Attract & Engage 

• SS&C 

• Hill Group 

• Sempra Homes 

• GSQ Brickwork Ltd 

• RLE 

• HSO 

• OCL 

• Creative BasildON 

• Woodcraft 

Contact Basildon Council's Press Office at pressoffice@basildon.gov.uk for further information.