Community effort overwhelming
Representatives of some of the charities have spoken for many in thanking the community for its response.
Clare Stevenson of CRAG (Cowie Rural Action Group) said:“thank you for helping us help others.
“CRAG (Cowie Rural Action Group) are helping over 40 families this year including two, three and sometimes four children families.
“The toy appeal is a great help and ensures all children receive what is always a brilliant present.
“We couldn’t do this without the support of your readers and donors.”
Stirlingyoung Carers service coordinator Zoe Tetsall, said:“we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of those who contributed to Give a Gift, especially this year when things are a bit more difficult for a lot of people.
“Although on holiday from school, young carers are still continuing their caring roles over the Christmas period and so to know that others in their community are helping to make their Christmas special certainly means a lot to them, and to theyoung Carers staff team.”
A member of staff from one local primary school said:“we would like to express our thanks to everyone involved in this initiative.
“The staff who attended said that it was very well organised and they were blown away by the amount of gifts and the quality of the gifts available.
“A total of 12 families from the school will benefit from the kind donations. I have delivered one set of parcels to a family, who were close to tears at everyone’s generosity.”
Jennie Syme of Love in a Box added: “Thanks so much to the Stirling Observer’s Give a Gift appeal to helping our organisation, Love in a Box to give out Christmas gifts to children that wouldn’t otherwise have presents to open on Christmas day.
“We are just blown away with how generous the community has been this year as we realise it has been a hard time for everyone.
“We really do appreciate everyone’s generosity and kindness and we would love for people to know their donations make a difference to the children.
“We are helping more children than ever this year due to the cost of living crisis we are experiencing. your appeal has meant every child put forward will get presents to open on Christmas day and as a small group of volunteers this makes us so happy.
“This is what Christmas is all about for Love in the Box.”