‘There are many local children who won’t receive a single present on Christmas day’
A local charity is calling on the community to support its Christmas campaign. Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University (HEYCU) has launched its Doorstep Elves campaign, which aims to give 20 local families in need a Christmas to remember.
Now in its sixth year, the scheme delivers festive cheer to families who might otherwise go without. Each family receives gifts for the children as well as everything they need for a Christmas feast – all hand-delivered by HEYCU’s “elves” in the run-up to the big day.
Cranswick Country Foods donates the meat for the Christmas dinners and other local businesses also provide support and funds. The charity is now calling on members of the public to support the campaign in two ways – by donating funds to help provide gifts, or by directly donating a gift for a child.
HEYCU’s Doorstep Elves team will be at St. Stephen’s shopping centre on Wednesday, December 3, and Wednesday, December 10, where shoppers can choose a gift tag from the charity’s Christmas tree. Every tag has a child’s age, gender and interests, so supporters can buy and donate a present that’s perfect for them.
Rose James, HEYCU’s chief executive, said: “Our Doorstep Elves campaign began when the Covid-19 pandemic left many families in our community struggling financially. Since then, the generosity of local businesses and members of the public have made it possible for us to bring joy to hundreds of children and families who are nominated by the schools we work with year-round.
“It’s an incredible community effort – every year we’re blown away by the kindness we see.” The charity believes children who celebrate Christmas should not miss out on the experience because of circumstances they can’t control.
Rose continued: “There are many local children who won’t receive a single present on Christmas day, even though their families would love to be able to give them a gift. Through this campaign, we’re not just delivering gifts and food – we’re bringing the magic of Christmas to those who need it most.”
To support the campaign, you can visit the team at St Stephen’s. You can also make a donation at the fundraising page by clicking here.
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