Home Start thanks for giving tree
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HOME-START Deveron has thanked all who donated to the Gift Tree appeal last Christmas.
‘The Gift Tree’ was located at Banff’s Spotty Bag Shop and was the focal point for raising awareness for the cause.
In response, members of the public and local businesses provided hundreds of gifts that were divided across the 160 children that had been referred to the appeal; every child receiving toys, an article of clothing and a few small stocking fillers.
Home-Start Deveron worked in partnership with social work, health visitors, Aberdeenshire Council, other professionals, local businesses and volunteers to organise the appeal.
Coordinator Reena Thom said: "At a time when a lot of us are struggling financially, it was very gratifying to see that the Christmas spirit was alive and well in the Banff area.
"It shows what can be achieved with cooperation, volunteers and commitment, combined with the kindness and generosity of local people.
"The appeal helped a great many people at what can be, for some, a very challenging time of year."
The age range of recipients varied from new born babies to young adults with additional support needs; the team of volunteers selecting appropriate gifts, bagging and labelling ready for distribution by the partners.
In addition to gifts for the children, more than 100 food parcels were given out to families over the festive period working in conjunction with Banff Churches Together.
These food hampers were made up of non-perishable items, toiletries and small Christmas treats, donated by local businesses, members of the public and church congregations.
