Mail readers dig deep to make Christmas special for needy kids

This year’s Give A Gift collection by Hartlepool firm MKM Building Supplies - backed by the Hartlepool Mail – has amassed over 500 presents and 75 food hampers to help families in need this Christmas

A range of charities and community organisations have benfitted from your generosity.

We asked the people of Hartlepool to dig deep while you were out doing your Christmas shopping and you have responded.

Your gifts means youngsters will wake up to a present on Christmas Day that they would otherwise not have got and others will have a visit to hospital made that little bit better.

Mick Sumpter, MKM Hartlepool branch director, said: “What a great appeal we have had this year.

“Times are hard for a lot of people but 500 presents and 75 food hampers tells you all you need to know about people’s generosity.

“Unfortunately we didn’t start the appeal until the back end of November but, despite that, I am very happy with the result.

“A big thank you must go to our customers at MKM and of course to the general public, not forgetting that MKM has also donated too.

“A special thanks must go to two of my colleagues Jane Plant and Julie Callaghan who co ordinate the appeal every year.

“The response has been fantastic.”

He added: “This appeal is so worthwhile. it’s a great opportunity to make a real difference to children’s lives in Hartlepool.

“For sure MKM will continue with the appeal every year just like with have done for the last six years.

“A massive ‘thank you’ to all those who have contributed. You have been brilliant.

Among the organisations to benefit from donations are St Aiden’s School, NEST, Lynnfield School, Golden Flatts School, MIND, The West View Project, Eskdale School, Parents in need of support (PINS), Stranton School, Hartlepool Carers, Families First, Café 0ne77, Jesmond School, West View School, Kilmarnock Youth Centre and Kingsley Primary School.