London families fear no gifts for kids this Christmas

New data from Little Village highlights the heartbreaking reality for many families across the capital as the festive season approaches. Two-thirds of families (66%) supported by London’s biggest network of baby banks, are concerned about how they can afford a gift for their children this Christmas, while 68% are worried about putting food on the table.

Nearly 3 in 4 parents (71%) also were worried about being able to afford winter clothing for their children such as coats, waterproof shoes/boots, jumpers and hats.

In response, Little Village is launching its Bundles of Joy appeal to bring much-needed relief to families in need. Each bundle is brimming with essentials including warm winter clothes, toys, books, toiletries, bedding plus an e-voucher to buy a little something extra.

In the last 12-month period, Little Village has supported 9,201 children and with higher living costs, colder weather and festive holidays, winter can be a particularly tough time for families that Little Village supports.

Sophie Livingstone MBE, chief executive for Little Village said: “The demand for support from our baby banks never fades. Every day, parents reach out, struggling to afford the basics for their children, let alone holiday treats. We’re committed to making this season a bit more magical for as many families as possible and hope the public will join our festive appeal to help us provide essentials – and a bit of festive cheer – to those who need our support.”

This year, Little Village has already provided 39,678 pairs of pyjamas, 5,820 coats and with Christmas a particularly busy period, the charity is doing all it can by offering a gift voucher to help ease the financial pressure on parents.

“I remember last Christmas thinking I’m not going to be able to provide for my children and knowing that I couldn’t have been able to provide those few gifts broke me. I spent probably about two days crying consistently on and off trying to hide it. It was through the generosity of somebody else, I was able to provide for my children and that that meant the world to me.” said mum of three, Teesha.

Originally from the Ukraine, Oksana moved to the UK two years with her two children ago because of the dangers of the war arriving with two children: “All I had was one bag of things and my kids had a backpack each. It felt so lovely and great to have some help from Little Village. I was so happy and it made me realise that I wasn’t by myself with a small child. To know someone is thinking of you and are happy to offer help is so important.”

How can you help?

Visit our Big Give’s Christmas Challenge Week page between 3-10 December where donations will be doubled enabling us to help even more families across London.