According to the latest figures, 22.6% of children in Calderdale are living in poverty (source). This statistic highlights the vital role of charities like Mothershare in supporting vulnerable families, children and young people.
Each Christmas for the past eight years, Mothershare has invited the community and local businesses to participate in their Calderdale Secret Santa initiative through their annual Toy Drive. This campaign aims to bring joy to children and young people who might otherwise wake up on Christmas morning without a gift under their tree.
Many of these children face incredibly challenging circumstances. They may be living in emergency accommodation due to domestic violence, experiencing the impact of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, or navigating life in care homes or as care leavers.
For these families and individuals, the festive season often highlights financial hardship, making gifts a luxury they cannot afford.
By December, the charity had received an astonishing 624 referrals from statutory agencies for individual children in Calderdale who could benefit from their annual toy drive.
These referrals come from professionals who work directly with families and young people, ensuring that each request reflects a genuine need.
The toy drive invites sponsors to donate a gift with a recommended value of £20, offering a simple yet impactful way for individuals and businesses to get involved. Sponsors are matched with a child, receiving details about their age, gender, and interests to ensure each gift is meaningful and personalised.
Mothershare’s personalised approach goes beyond the simple act of gift-giving. It reminds children and their families that they are cared for by their community, bringing a sense of dignity, hope, and connection during what can be a difficult time of year.
Businesses can also play a role in spreading festive cheer by hosting ‘Giving Trees’.
These beautifully decorated Christmas trees are filled with tags, each representing a child in the Mothershare Toy Drive. Customers, employees, and visitors are invited to select a tag and donate a gift, ensuring a brighter Christmas for a child in need.
In addition to the personalised gifts from sponsors, Mothershare also prepares a Christmas Eve Box for each child or young person. Packed with essentials and goodies, these boxes are lovingly assembled by the charity’s dedicated team of volunteers, adding an extra touch of magic.
This heartwarming initiative has become a cherished tradition in the Calderdale community, with many sponsors returning year after year to support the cause.
However, as the demand continues to grow, Mothershare is always seeking new sponsors to meet the increasing number of referrals.
A highlight of the campaign is the Big Wrap, which took place on December 8th.
On this day, sponsors and volunteers came together to wrap and check each present carefully. Once wrapped, the gifts are then distributed in time for Christmas, ensuring they reach the children and young people who need them most.
Beyond their Christmas campaign, Mothershare provides vital support to families, young people, and expectant mothers throughout the year.
Their ongoing efforts aim to address immediate needs and offer practical help to those in challenging circumstances, ensuring that no one is left without the essentials.
The charity distributes various items, including clothing, school supplies, pre-loved technology, newborn essentials, and even bus passes to help families stay mobile and connected.
They also operate a 24/7 out-of-hours service, ensuring help is available whenever it’s needed.
How You Can Help
As demand for their services grows, Mothershare relies heavily on donations of items suitable for children and young people from pre-birth to age 21. Contributions such as baby clothes, school uniforms, toiletries, and technology make a meaningful difference.
To support Mothershare, visit their Facebook page and website.
Your generosity can help them continue their vital work, making a tangible difference in the lives of Calderdale’s most vulnerable children and families.