Help bring a smile to a child's face at Christmas

For so many families the run-up to the big day is one of worry and the need to help this year is greater than it has ever been.

People in Hartlepool – who last year donated over 500 presents – are being asked to buy one extra gift this year and donate it to the cause.

All your kind gifts will be distributed to organisations in the town – who will pass them on to those most in need in our community and – with the country in the grip of the coronavirus pandemic - that help has never been needed more.

Bosses at MKM Building Supplies, in Burn Road, Hartlepool, have generously committed once again to be the drop off point for donations.

Mick Sumpter, branch manager at the firm, told the Mail: "I certainly feel that this year is our most challenging out all the years we have been doing the appeal.

"Covid has turned our lives upside down, more families are struggling and, as you can imagine, that has an inevitable knock on effect to children.

"So this year it is our intention to do the very best for Hartlepool families.”

He added: “We are appealing to people in Hartlepool to support this appeal which will reach out to hundreds of children who may not receive a gift this Christmas.

"Added to the gift appeal, we intend to put together as many food hampers as we can.

" We know there is a need”

Gary Oliver, Head of Content of the mail, said: “Every year our readers astound us with their generosity and we hope this year will be no exception.

"We appreciate how difficult times are for many families at the moment and thank you all in advance for the wonderful way in which you respond to our appeal.”

There is no need to break the bank – with small items such as cuddly toys, perfumes and selection boxes just as welcome as bigger items.

Bosses at MKM Building Supplies, in Burn Road, Hartlepool, have generously committed to once again to be a drop off point for donations.

Gifts can be donated between 7.30am and 5.30pm from Monday to Friday or from 7.30am to noon on Saturdays.

Gifts should be new and unwrapped when handed over.

Mick Sumpter added: “It’s just great to be part of the appeal, knowing that we are helping people and we enjoy speaking to the people coming in to take the gifts, whether it is to a refuge centre or wherever in the town.

“Over the years we have built up a great rapport with those who come in and they always say how much they appreciate our help, but it is the least I can do.

“So many of these charities and organisations are struggling to survive, especially this year, and desperately need our support.

“Without it many children would receive nothing on Christmas morning. That’s heartbreaking.

*Any charities or organisations that would like to be considered for a donation from our toy appeal, can contact MKM Building Supplies on 01429 231500.