Now in its 42nd year, The Salvation Army are again hosting a Christmas gift appeal for the Salisbury area with its partners, Wiltshire Council social services.
Launching this week, the Salisbury church and social care provider are inviting the community to help them support families or individuals living alone with appropriate new gifts to help make Christmas more special in these challenging times.
The council's family workers, housing welfare officers and social workers will deliver gifts to families known to Wiltshire social services as being in particular need.
"It’s wonderful how so many people make this Christmas gift appeal possible," said Captain Martin Davison of Salisbury Salvation Army. "We are humbled by the kindness of the community in providing us with new gifts or financial contributions to make this initiative possible."
Based on Salt Lane, Salisbury, the Salvation Army Community Church and Hub will be open on Wed, Thurs, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am till 2pm to accept donations of new gifts for children and teenagers, plus gifts for adults living in isolated settings, up until Christmas.
"We like to add Biscuits and sweets where possible to each delivery where appropriate as this adds something extra to the Christmastime experience of those living on reduced budgets or changed circumstances," added Captain Martin.
Gifts need to be new and unwrapped, so care workers and volunteers can make age-appropriate choices for the family members who will receive them.
Gifts for teenagers are particularly welcome, as this age range is often difficult to fulfil: young people are too old for toys yet still need to be recognised as part of the family.
Last year, the charity provided over 500 gifts to distribute in the community and expects this number to increase due to the harsh reality of cost-of-living increases, with much higher heating and food costs.
A key feature of the appeal is the support from local businesses to meet demand for gifts, and how companies often create fun team events to raise funds or provide gifts.
"This is the season of goodwill to all," said Captain Martin. "If we can bring just a little of the Christmas joy into the lives of others, it could make such a difference for their future wellbeing and hope for the future."
The Final opportunity to bring donations will be at the Salvation Army Carol service at 2 pm on Sunday 20th December, when the church will include a time of thanksgiving for all those who have made the Christmas appeal possible.
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