Hundreds of Christmas hampers to be delivered to struggling families in Milton Keynes

Businesses, organisations and individualshave donated thousands of pounds this year to local Children and Family Centres in financial support, food and gifts.

Now staff are busy creating hampers of basic food items as well as Christmas treats, selection boxes, toys for children and gifts for adults. The Windmill Children’s Centre in New Bradwell has been dubbed ‘Hamper HQ’ because so many of the hampers have been created there..

The finished hampers will be delivered to 300 of the hardest hit families across Milton Keynes over the next two weeks.

Among the donors were MK’s Allica Bank, which pledged £5,000. This was spent on sourcing supplies via local businesses.

Sixth formers at Stowe School raised an impressive £1,000 via creative activities like a silent auction and a pizza raffle. MK Food Bank, Temple Academy, The Salvation Army, Plumbing and Gas Solutions, Worksmart Limited, Molly’s Pantry, Ragdolly Anna’s, DHD temperature control transport, Ingram Micro, Loughton School, faith groups, members of the public and council colleagues have also contributed to the Christmas hampers and gifts.

Cllr Zoe Nolan, Cabinet member for children and families, said: “The level of support from our local community has been incredible and has enabled the creation of some wonderful hampers for families. I want to give a heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been involved in this – from those working across our wonderful Children and Family Centres to the businesses, organisations and individuals who have been so generous.

It has been such a tough year for everyone, and these acts of kindness make a real difference to some of those who may be struggling.”