Help bring Christmas joy to Tameside’s care experienced young people
Tameside Council's Leaving Care Service has relaunched its festive appeal to support care experienced young people across the borough, many of whom may be spending Christmas away from family networks.
The council supports 406 young people aged 18 to 25 who have previously been in care.
Working alongside young people, the service has created an Amazon wishlist featuring thoughtful gifts such as cosy blankets, toiletries, earbuds, fluffy socks, and craft sets. With items available at a range of prices, the appeal offers everyone the opportunity to make a difference and help bring some warmth and joy to a young person's Christmas.
Every gift is a reminder that our care experienced young people are valued members of the Tameside community and that they are not forgotten during the festive period.
People can buy items from the wishlist by visiting: https://www.amazon.co.uk/registries/gl/guest-view/32Z02T040L3GV?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ggr-subnav-share_32BESBAC8KQ63R1HEG6Q
The gifts will then be delivered directly to the Leaving Care service who will wrap them up and deliver them to the young people in time for Christmas.
Alternatively, unwrapped presents can be bought and dropped off at Ashton Old Library, Old Street, OL6 7SG.
Gifts can be purchased until 11 December.
A care experienced young person from Tameside said: “This appeal is incredibly important.
“For most people, as you get older Christmas changes but for some young people, we never got the chance to experience a proper Christmas. This time of year just feels cold and lonely, and we can’t wait for it to be over.
“Any donation could put a smile on a young person’s face during this hard time (or it could really help us stay warm).”
Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Children and Families, Cllr Teresa Smith said: “We want to make sure each and every young person has a gift to unwrap on Christmas Day.
“Any gift, big or small, will make a real difference to someone and your generosity will show them they are thought of and appreciated.
“Please spread the holiday spirit and help us make this Christmas one to remember for our incredible care leavers.”