Covid charity group aiming to provide some festive cheer for Harrogate children this Christmas

A campaign to fund presents for children in struggling families this Christmas is nearing its deadline for pledges.
Susie Little's Covid Co-operation charity is looking to raise funds and buy Christmas presents for vulnerable children across the Harrogate district.Susie Little's Covid Co-operation charity is looking to raise funds and buy Christmas presents for vulnerable children across the Harrogate district.
Susie Little's Covid Co-operation charity is looking to raise funds and buy Christmas presents for vulnerable children across the Harrogate district.

The appeal, backed by the Covid Co-operation, Harrogate group, is asking for people to donate what they can before Thursday December 3.

Susie Little, founder of the ‘Smiles Not Tears This Christmas’ campaign, said gifts bought with the funds raised will be purchased from local businesses to support the area’s economy alongside helping children. The group are encouraging businesses to get in touch to let them know about their services.

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Following the success of a previous crowdfunding appeal during the first national lockdown, Susie decided to attempt to make Christmas special for the many children in the town whose parents will struggle to buy presents for them this year.

Having raised over £11,000 during the first national lockdown, the group are eager to see how much they can raise this time around.

“It is heartbreaking to think of children without presents and parents who cannot provide for no fault of their own,” said Susie. “Let’s make sure this doesn’t happen in our district.

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“Small businesses have had a dreadful year, so wherever possible we will purchase presents from local companies to boost the area’s economy. We have had a phenomenal response so far, raising nearly £1,500. If we can reach £2,000 then that would be amazing.

“If we work based on £25 per child, then we would be able to help over 50 children. This would make a huge difference.”

The level of success will dictate how purchasing and distribution is done, but the initial plan is to split the presents across local charities helping those in need.

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Susie Little added: “We will distribute the presents in collaboration with several local charities who already have contact with struggling families, such as the teams at Resurrected Bites and New Beginnings.

“We are creating a local triangle of fundraising with charities who want to assist us, and businesses who need the help. This will allow charities to provide a wider scope of service and put smiles on faces this Christmas.”

The deadline for pledges is December 3 and anyone wishing to donate to the appeal should visit the dedicated Crowdfunder website page at: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/smiles-not-tears-this-christmas#start

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