The Santa’s Little Helper campaign is appealing for donations of Christmas gifts to give to children. The campaign – which is sponsored by Manx Telecom and promoted by 3FM – aims to make sure that children on the Island who are less fortunate than most will receive a present to make them smile. The Children’s Centre co-ordinates the distribution of presents to youngsters who need them the most. Susie Cox, the charity’s Fundraising Co-ordinator, said:
“Santa’s little helper has become a fantastic community tradition, and it’s something The Children’s Centre feels privileged to be a part of. Every year the campaign collects thousands of gifts donated from the generous people of the Island, and with the help of lots of other charities and organisations, we distribute them to children across the Isle of Man who are most in need. There are lots of families across the Island struggling at this time of year for all sorts of reasons. It might be due to a decline in income or a bereavement in the family. Whatever the reason, no child should have to go without.”
Organisers are appealing for donations of a wide range of gifts to suit children from very young babies to young adults. Susie added this advice:
“Vouchers for cosmetics, music, and clothing are perfect for teenagers as it allows them to choose something they love – and make-up and fragrances are always a hit with the girls! Don’t rule anything out, just treat the gift item as if buying for a loved one. All we ask is that the presents are new and unused.”
Ron Berry, Managing Director of 3FM, commented:
“2014 has been a tough year for many of us. The Manx public have a great sense of community and show incredible generosity to the children of the Island who, for a variety of reasons, are less fortunate than most. The Santa’s Little Helper appeal is a real example of that generosity and that’s why 3FM is so proud to play a part in making Christmas special for those children who may not otherwise feel the Christmas spirit. I personally thank all of our listeners who donate toys, The Children’s Centre for the hard work that they do in distributing the donated gifts, and Manx Telecom for their generous support.”
Manx Telecom’s Marketing Communications Manager Voirrey Barron added:
“Santa’s Little Helper is a fantastic initiative and we’re delighted to play our part for a third consecutive year. We’re once again appealing to the general public to support us and other businesses with this worthwhile project. Our goal is to fill the toy box situated in the Manx Telecom shop, as many times as possible before Christmas and we need help from the general public, to make that happen! We’re looking for gifts and vouchers for boys or girls, up to 18 years of age. We’re certain that no matter how small the donation, it will make a huge difference to children who are less fortunate and to those who won’t have the opportunity to spend time with family and loved ones this Christmas. Thank you to everyone who has already taken the time to call in store, please keep the gifts coming.”
Donation boxes are situated at Manx Telecom’s shop in Strand Street, Douglas, and 3FM’s offices in Victoria Street. You can also drop your gifts into The Children’s Centre in Woodbourne Road in Douglas. If you’d like to collect gifts in the area where you live or at your workplace – or you know a family that you think could benefit from Santa’s Little Helper – please call Susie Cox to arrange collection of the donations on 676076.
