More than one hundred students spending the festive season at Edge Hill University have been gifted special hampers filled with seasonal treats, delivered in a touching tribute to a former student.
A Heartfelt Gesture for the Fifth Year Running
For the fifth consecutive year, the Halle O'Brien Community Interest Company (CIC) has made a generous donation to support Edge Hill University's Care Experienced and Estranged Students (CEES). The initiative aims to bring Christmas cheer during a period that can be challenging for those unable to return to family homes. This year, a total of 120 students living on campus over the holidays benefited from the scheme.
One recipient, Taylor Davies, shared how much the gesture meant. "It was lovely to receive the hamper again this year; it's really made my Christmas better," Davies said. "To me, Christmas is a time to relax and recharge after a busy year, and the hamper made me smile so much. It is such a lovely sentiment."
Davies highlighted the thoughtful contents, which included chocolate, toiletries, and games to share with flatmates. Reflecting on the support, Davies added, "Since leaving care, I've found the quality of support from authorities can vary, so Edge Hill and Halle O'Brien CIC's dedication to supporting people with experiences like mine is just brilliant."
Honouring Halle's Memory Through Community Support
The Halle O'Brien CIC was established in 2020 in memory of Heather O'Brien's daughter, Halle. In 2019, Halle was halfway through her first year studying BA (Hons) English at Edge Hill when she tragically contracted Strep A and subsequently meningitis. Her family has since dedicated themselves to improving education and support for other young people.
A key project is Halle's Hub, a community shop in Litherland that supports the CIC's work by selling donated items at affordable prices. Heather O'Brien, Halle's mum and co-founder, explained the motivation behind the hamper project. "Collaborating with Edge Hill University to support students who may not experience a traditional Christmas is a mission we know Halle would have championed with all her heart," she said.
"Every year, we take immense pride in hand-selecting each gift to ensure they are meaningful and high-quality," Heather continued. "From festive treats to winter essentials, we pack these hampers with items designed to make students feel truly cosy and cared for. It is our way of ensuring that every student feels part of a wider family during the holidays."
University Gratitude for a Meaningful Impact
Joanna Ellmore, a student support officer at Edge Hill, expressed her gratitude for the ongoing partnership. "Seeing students receive their hampers is truly a highlight of our year," Ellmore stated. "As the team provides dedicated, on-course support, we see first-hand the meaningful impact these gifts have on our students' wellbeing. They always notice the incredible care and attention to detail that goes into selecting and packing every item."
Ellmore concluded, "We are so grateful to the family and the Halle O'Brien CIC; it is a privilege to play a part in such a wonderful initiative." The university continues to encourage students with experience of care or who are estranged from family to explore the support available through its Widening Access and Student Success Team.
