Generosity Shines as Community Comes Together for a Magical Christmas
The Skipton Step Into Action Christmas Elves appeal 2023 has wrapped up another successful year, thanks to the overwhelming support from the local community. A heartfelt message from the organiser extends gratitude to donors and volunteers who played a crucial role in making Christmas special for 152 children across 59 families in Skipton and its surrounding villages.
The appeal, which saw an outpouring of generosity, managed to raise approximately £9500 through monetary donations, gifts, and other items. This substantial sum has been directly channelled towards ensuring that each child received a tailored Christmas present, valued up to £25, making sure that their wishes came true.
Parents were given the opportunity to request specific gifts for their children, and the organisers went above and beyond by supplementing the presents with a selection box, hand-knitted hats or scarves, books, games, toys, stationery, craft kits, and accessories.
A team of 45 dedicated volunteers played a pivotal role in the success of the appeal, from promoting it to local communities and businesses to collecting, sorting, wrapping, and delivering 152 bags of presents.
Walker Foster, NFU Mutual, and ourselves, acted as drop-off points for gifts, facilitating the collection process. Fortem People generously provided free access to their event space for a week, enabling the efficient sorting and wrapping of gifts. Skipton Fire Station continued its support by delivering gifts on a fire engine, adding an extra layer of excitement for the children!
Reflecting on the community’s generosity, Skipton Step Into Action expressed gratitude for the privilege of bringing together those in need with those willing to help. The impact of this initiative was clearly visible through the heartfelt feedback received from the families supported:
“I can’t say enough how much this helps us; for the past three years, my children have had something to open on Christmas day.”
“The presents were absolutely perfect and made my children so happy. I couldn’t have bought more perfect presents myself! It made my kids’ Christmas and was absolutely perfect and appreciated.”
“Amazing staff; my little girl was crying with happiness when the lady and gentleman came and dropped the presents.”
“Fantastic – really made my son’s Christmas extra special.”
“I couldn’t believe the presents; each child got personalized stockings. It really made me feel the kindness and magic of Christmas.”
“Everything was above and beyond. My children loved it.”
The heartfelt testimonials highlight the significant positive impact this initiative had on the community, making Christmas a truly magical experience for those in need.