CHRISTMAS tree and decoration donations are being sought to help care leavers in Warwickshire enjoy festivities this year.
Warwickshire County Council’s House Project is asking the community to donate Christmas trees and decorations so young people can decorate their homes and enjoy the season as much as possible.
Many of those in care have struggled through the pandemic – some have lost their jobs or are struggling to make ends meet, and some do not have family to support them. This can often mean they are unable to afford luxuries such as trees and decorations.
House Project support worker Tamar Green said: “We are delighted to launch this initiative in the lead up to Christmas so that all care leavers in Warwickshire can enjoy the festive season this year. It has been a very unsettling year for many, especially these young people living alone.
“We have already received some fantastic donations from supermarkets, shops and members of the community. However we can’t stop there – our goal is to ensure that all of our care leavers in Warwickshire can have a Christmas tree that they can decorate this year.
“We are asking members of the community for any unwanted or donated Christmas trees, lights and decorations.”
A young care leaver who is a part of the House Project added: “I think the Christmas tree campaign is an amazing idea, there are so many teens who are living independently and are leaving care who don’t have anybody to spend Christmas with and don’t have the money to buy Christmas decorations.
“This campaign will make Christmas a lot easier for them and make them feel a bit more Christmassy over this period. It will also increase their mood and improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.”
Residents can either donate and drop off collections at drop-off points in Nuneaton and Warwick, or set up a collection point themselves. Donations should be made by November 30.
Email [email protected] for donation details and visit www.warwickshire.thehouseproject.org for project information.
