Hartlepool Giving Tree appeal branches out to help town’s elderly after phenomenal success for children

Middleton Grange shopping centre’s annual Giving Tree proved a massive success collecting tens of thousands of gifts for children when it was launched online for the first time this year due to Covid.

Now the centre’s physical Giving Tree in the shopping is collecting gifts for the older generation on behalf of groups and charities including Miles for Men.

Many elderly people, including those in care and nursing homes, have been separated from much of their families because of the Covid-19 guidelines.

Middleton Grange manager Mark Rycraft said the centre will continue to collect gifts for pensioners up to and even beyond Christmas.

He said: “We are going to continue to run the Giving Tree for older people and pensioners and nursing homes.

“I think it’s really important to think of older people. I hear a lot of stories about older people who may be alone this Christmas because they don’t have family or friends or because of the restrictions.

“This kind of thing is needed not just for Christmas but all the time.”

People wishing to support the appeal simply take a gift tag off the tree which contain gift wishes tailored to specific people.

Presents include socks, pyjamas, dressing gowns, toiletries, and gloves.

Miles For Men has received about 100 presents both from the Giving Tree and those dropped off at its Extra Mile shop.

The charity hopes it will give some joy to those who may otherwise go overlooked at this time of year.

Miles For Men founder Micky Day said: “It’s something we’ve been doing for the past few years.

"A lot of people collect for kids as we do but this is just something nice we can give back for the elderly.

"I think pensioners are often missed out. There’s lots of people out there that don’t get visitors or a present.

"Some don’t see their family or don’t have family.

"We do it to make sure they get something. A little gift can make their day.”

Any groups or care homes in need of gifts in time for Christmas can email: [email protected]

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