Charity calls for support to deliver festive magic to families in need this Christmas.
Local charity Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University (HEYCU) is calling on the community to support its ‘Doorstep Elves’ campaign and help give 20 local families in need a Christmas to remember.
Now in its sixth year, the Doorstep Elves schemedelivers festive cheer to families who might otherwise go without, with each family receiving gifts for the children as well as everything they need for a Christmas feast – all hand-delivered by HEYCU’s “elves” in the run-up to the big day.
The scheme is backed by Cranswick Country Foods, who donate the meat for Christmas dinners, with other local businesses also providing valuable support and funds.
Members of the public can support the campaign in two ways: by donating funds to help provide gifts, or by directly donating a gift for a child.
HEYCU’s Doorstep Elves team will be at St. Stephen’s shopping centre in Hull on Sunday 16th November, Wednesday 3rd December and Wednesday 10th December, where shoppers can choose a gift tag from the charity’s Christmas tree.
Each tag features a child’s age, gender and interests, so supporters can buy and donate a present that’s perfect for them.
“Our Doorstep Elves campaign began in 2019, when the Covid-19 pandemic left many families in our community struggling financially,” said Rose James, HEYCU’s chief executive.
“Since then, the generosity of local businesses and members of the public have made it possible for us to bring joy to hundreds of children and families who are nominated by the schools we work with year-round.
“It’s an incredible community effort – every year we’re blown away by the kindness we see.”
HEYCU works with local primary schools to raise children’s aspirations and broaden their horizons through inspiring learning experiences, from visits to museums and visitor attractions to behind-the-scenes tours at local businesses.
The charity believes children who celebrate Christmas should not miss out on the experience because of circumstances they can’t control.
“There are many local children who won’t receive a single present on Christmas day, even though their families would love to be able to give them a gift,” added Rose.
“Through this campaign, we’re not just delivering gifts and food – we’re bringing the magic of Christmas to those who need it most.”
Those wishing to support the campaign can:
- Visit the HEYCU team at St. Stephen’s shopping centre on the dates above to pick up a gift tag and donate a present. Presents can be left with the HEYCU team on the day or delivered at any time to the Hugh Rice store in St. Stephen’s; or:
- Make an online donation at the Doorstep Elves fundraising page.
Visit the Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University website for more information, or follow it on Facebook and Instagram for updates from the Doorstep Elves as Christmas approaches.