ABERDEEN-BASED charity Befriend a Child has kicked off its annual Giving Tree Appeal, aiming to spread festive cheer to children living in challenging circumstances. The initiative ensures that the children supported by the charity, along with their siblings, have a magical Christmas filled with presents to unwrap on Christmas morning and exciting experiences to anticipate in the coming year.
Members of the public are invited to participate in the appeal by picking up a tag from one of the charity’s Giving Tree partners located across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. These tags specify either donating a Christmas gift for a local child or contributing money, which will go towards providing enriching experiences for the children.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Why? Free to subscribe, no paywall, daily business news digest.
Jean Gordon, Head of Operations at Befriend a Child, expressed the significance of the Giving Tree appeal, especially during the holiday season. “Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many of our children and their families. Our Giving Tree appeal helps ease the financial pressure on the families we support and ensures that our children have a magical Christmas,” she said. Gordon expressed gratitude for the overwhelming generosity of the public, emphasising the positive impact it has on the children and families they assist.
Beyond the joy of receiving gifts, the appeal plays a crucial role in raising essential funds for the charity’s befriending program, benefiting 245 local children annually. The funds raised enable these children and young people to enjoy outings and experiences with their volunteers throughout the year. “The experiences the children enjoy with their befrienders and mentors have a truly incredible impact on their lives. It gives the children the opportunity to take part in activities that may otherwise not be available to them, helping them grow in confidence and self-esteem, learn new skills, and improve their wellbeing as they spend time with a trusted friend and positive adult role model,” Jean continued.
Participation in the Giving Tree Appeal is open to everyone; individuals can obtain a tag from the charity’s Giving Tree partners. Additionally, the public can purchase gifts through the charity’s Amazon Wishlist or make online donations to support outings and experiences for the children. Further information about the Giving Tree can be accessed through the following link: Befriend a Child – Giving Tree 2023.
This heartwarming initiative not only brightens the holiday season for local children but also strengthens the community spirit, demonstrating the power of collective kindness during the festive period.