A Nottinghamshire-based charity has brought festive joy to thousands of children facing hardship this Christmas, delivering a record number of presents across the region.
Record-Breaking Response to Rising Need
Lifting Children's Hopes (LCH Charity) has distributed more than 2,400 Christmas gifts to children, families, and schools affected by poverty in Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands. This marks a dramatic increase from a successful trial last year, which saw 400 presents delivered.
The charity reported being inundated with referrals from schools for children and young people who otherwise would have had nothing to open on Christmas morning. For the first time this year, the initiative extended its support to include teenagers with festive gifts, a group often overlooked during the holiday season.
The Stark Reality of Child Poverty
The charity's work addresses a critical need. Research conducted by Loughborough University for the End Child Poverty Coalition reveals that 29 per cent of children in the East Midlands are living in poverty.
This statistic translates into daily struggles for families: an increased reliance on food banks, children without warm winter clothing, and many living in cold or unsafe housing. Additional challenges like bereavement, difficult home lives, or family hardship mean many young people go without basics most take for granted.
Community Spirit Brings Hope
Nichola Moore, CEO of LCH Charity, emphasised the impact of community support. "We know that for too many children, Christmas can be a really tough time," she said. "Something as simple as a gift or a warm coat can make a world of difference. Thanks to our amazing supporters, the community has come together to make sure every child feels seen, supported and special this Christmas."
She added, "Every scarf, every toy, every pound donated brings a little more warmth to a child who really needs it. Together, we can make sure no child feels forgotten this Christmas."
The charity's team, including CEO Nichola Moore and volunteers Michelle Cullen, Andy Benz (Santa), Lauren Shaw, and Bianca Maloy, worked tirelessly to prepare and deliver the gifts in the lead-up to Christmas.
Donations are still being accepted to support the charity's ongoing work. Financial contributions can be made via www.lchcharity.co.uk/donate. The charity is also collecting new toys, gifts, and winter wear (new or gently used) at their office at 82 Cannock Street, Leicester, LE4 9HR, where free parking is available. To arrange a drop-off, contact hello@lchcharity.co.uk or call 0116 251 9863.
