Last month Cash for Kids were given access to Southpoint House free of charge for Mission Christmas which will run until the end of January. Mission Christmas works closely with social workers, head teachers and the emergency services throughout the North East who will nominate families in crisis to be supported by the appeal, ensuring that all local children wake up with a smile on Christmas Morning.
Michelle Ferguson, Cash for Kids Charity Manager comments “We are extremely grateful to Knight Property Group for donating the use of one of their buildings and all associated utility costs. We cannot operate out of our building as the appeal has become so big and could not manage without the help and kindness of Knight Property Group. The building is perfect for our needs and close to our headquarters at Northsound it will work really well for us and for the army of volunteers we rely on to deliver this massive campaign.”
In addition to Mission Christmas, the charity are continuing their Winter Coat Appeal which sees new coats, boots, hats and gloves bought for children. Without this appeal, many children would not be prepared for the harsh cold weather that the North East faces, having the correct clothing will allow them to maintain good health and enjoy the holiday season to its fullest.
Michelle continues, “Year on year the project has grown, but without the support of Knight and other local businesses providing their services free of charge, this would not be possible. Over the last 2 years we have seen an increase in the numbers of families needing support, especially during the festive period.”
In 2016 Cash for Kids raised over £420,900 through gift and cash donations and made Christmas special for over 7,100 local children throughout the North East, but this year the team want to do more.
James Barrack, Managing Director of Knight Property Group says: “We’re thrilled to be able to support Cash for Kids again this year. Christmas should be a time for families to come together and celebrate however this is often not the case. Currently 1 in 5 Children in the North East are living in poverty and with the increased challenges within the current market, this number is likely to increase.
As a team we are always looking for new and creative ways to utilise our staff and facilities in a way that the local community will benefit.”
In addition to the full use of their facilities, Knight Property Group have donated £1,000 to the Winter Coat appeal so that the charity can support another 20 children this winter.
If you are looking for more information on how you can support, or gain support from Cash for Kids visit: https://planetradio.co.uk/northsound/charity/events/northsound-mission-christmas/
