1 in 3 children in the North East are living in poverty. For many of these families, there is a harsh reality of deciding whether to heat their homes this winter or put food on the table. So when Christmas arrives, it's simply seen as a luxury that they cannot afford.
This is where local charity Cash for Kids step in to make sure every child can believe in the magic of Christmas. Cash for Kids is dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the North East, from the moment they’re born up to and including the age of 18.
Mission Christmas will launch on Monday, 17th November with one very simple aim – to ensure every child wakes up to a present from Santa on Christmas Day. In 2024, thanks to the generosity of the North East, Mission Christmas provided gifts for over 42,000 local children. Cash for Kids will be aiming to support a similar number this year. The campaign has grown over the years and relies on a small army of supporters to make the magic happen throughout November and December.
There are many ways for businesses and individuals to get involved with Mission Christmas:
1. Donate gifts – Cash for Kids accept new and unwrapped gift donations for all ages from birth up to and including 18 years of age. These can be dropped off at any local B&M store from 17th November onwards. They will be collected and taken to Mission Christmas HQ in Washington to be sorted and distributed to beneficiaries.
2. Donate cash or fundraise – Cash donations are a vital part of Mission Christmas. During the appeal, the charity often struggles to receive donations for certain age ranges such as babies and those aged 9+. With cash donations, they can purchase large quantities of stock at discounted prices by working with retail partners such as Amazon. Any funds which aren’t spent will be used in the New Year as part of their ‘Cost of Living’ grants to support families with basic essentials during the winter. Companies can help by making a one-off donation or by getting involved with some festive fundraising, such as Christmas Jumper Day or donating employees’ last hour of pay before the holidays.
3. Buy a gift online – Mission Christmas has a specific wish list set up with Amazon. Items on this list have been carefully chosen by the charity to help them fulfil applications and will be delivered directly to Mission Christmas HQ, often the next day which is invaluable to the team. This is a great way to support the appeal and is ideal for those who are housebound or prefer to shop online.
4. Spread the word – The success of Mission Christmas is largely down to as many people knowing about it as possible! You can help Cash for Kids by posting about the appeal if you’re getting involved or by sharing their social media content (@cashforkidsne).
5. Come to Laffs4Kids! Local comedian Jason Cook started Laffs4Kids in 2015 and the show sees a host of well known comedy stars perform at the ultimate feelgood festive night out, all in aid of Mission Christmas. Audience members buy a ticket and bring a gift along on the night. It’s taking place this year on Sunday, 14th December at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle and tickets are on sale now. Please note that it is an adult only show and not for the easily offended!
So, there are many ways to get behind the Mission Christmas appeal and make a difference this Christmas for thousands of North East children.
To find out more, you can contact the Cash for Kids team by emailing northeast@cashforkids.org.uk or by searching ‘Mission Christmas’ online from November.