As we embrace the most wonderful time of the year, our dedicated team has been working tirelessly to ensure that every child in our care experiences the joy of Christmas. Achieving this feat is no small task, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible individuals and organisations that have supported us.
This festive season, the outpouring of generosity has been truly heart-warming. Families in our care have received invitations to festive events, Christmas toy donations, and support from community initiatives aimed at raising funds for respite.
The Elite Leisure Collection treated our families and staff to the enchanting Christmas at Bewl opening day in November. Thanks to their generosity, families could enjoy the magical atmosphere, engaging activities, beautiful decorations, and even meet Santa, all free of charge. This not only brought immense joy but also alleviated stress for families with children facing unique challenges. Accredo added to the Christmas spirit by gifting the Trust advent calendars, providing the perfect seasonal treat for children to kick-start December.
Throughout the month we have received an incredible array of toy and gift donations from local groups. More Radio continued their support this year, with a selection of gifts to spark joy for our young people. The Sussex Chapter of Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association (WSMBA) brought Santa’s magic to the centre through their Annual Christmas Toy Appeal, delivering a sack full of lovingly wrapped gifts to be distributed during our Christmas sessions. Abbotts Wood Manor care home generously donated a variety of toys and treats with careful consideration of children’s needs, adding a touch of magic to the lives of children facing challenging times.
As well as the incredible gifts the children at the Trust have received we have also had a fantastic amount of support from local groups and business raising much needed funds. On December 16th, the Uckfield Brass Band and choral group Cantando held a fabulously festive Christmas concert, not only raising funds but also sharing joy with our community. We’re also grateful to Buxted Park Hotel, a local business championing charity support this season, as they host a Christmas event in aid of the Children’s Respite Trust on the 23rd December. We were incredibly fortunate to benefit from the continued support from Heidenhain receiving an incredible £2,000 towards our work.
Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to those who have chosen to support the Trust in lieu of gifts and cards. Every donation contributes to ensuring that more families with disabled children feel supported, valued, and able to share in the magic of the holiday season. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and we are deeply thankful for your ongoing support.