FCHO Mission Christmas appeal is making a difference to hundreds of families

Housing association First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) has once again launched its FCHO Mission Christmas appeal, aiming to bring some Christmas magic to local families.

For the last six years, FCHO has organised the initiative to make sure that children in families who are struggling wake up to a gift or toy on Christmas Day.

The appeal has seen generous colleagues from FCHO and many of its partner organisations donate vouchers and toys.

Naomi Martin-Smith, Learning and Development Co-ordinator at FCHO, runs the FCHO Mission Christmas appeal each year.

She said: “This year we’ve raised more than £4,400 worth of gifts for local children which is just fantastic.

"More than ever, this year we’re seeing bills and inflation soar and cost-of-living pressures rise which inevitably means more families are struggling.

“To be able to make even just one child smile this Christmas and ease a little bit of that pressure on parents and guardians means the world to us.

"Luckily, thanks to the generosity of so many people and organisations, we’ll be able to do this for hundreds of families which is simply amazing.

"We can’t thank you all enough.”

The gifts will be delivered to families nominated through referrals made by FCHO services.

As well as donating presents and money, FCHO colleagues have also volunteered their own time to wrap the gifts, make deliveries and even dress up as Santa in the run up to the big day.

Kelly Webb, Director of Customer Services at FCHO, added: “Each year it’s so heart-warming to see everyone come together for FCHO Mission Christmas.

"I’m thrilled we’ve been able to generate our biggest amount yet and at a time where many people’s budgets are already stretched.

"It really goes to show how much the families we work with mean to our colleagues at FCHO and our partner organisations.

“At FCHO, as well as providing affordable homes, we understand there are lots of people who need help across various areas of their life, whether that be debt reduction, income maximisation, help searching for work or accessing affordable food.

"That’s why we have teams who are dedicated to providing wrap-around support to any of our customers who need it.

“FCHO Mission Christmas is another way that we’re able to support not only our customers, but families across the borough, and I’m really proud of everyone involved who’s worked their socks off to make it happen.”

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