As Christmas approaches, homes across our community will soon be glowing with lights, filled with laughter, and echoing with the excitement of children counting down the days.
But for many local families, the festive season is a time of stress and uncertainty, says Wokingham charity First Days Children’s Charity.
The charity supports families across Berkshire and surrounding areas, providing essential items children need to be safe at home, confident at school, and happy in life – from school uniforms and winter coats to beds, and buggies.
But at Christmas, their mission takes on a special sparkle.
This year, First Days is once again running its annual festive campaign, a Christmas project designed to bring joy, dignity, and hope to families experiencing hardship.
With the help of the local community, the charity is transforming its School Uniform shop into a magical Christmas Grotto.
Families are invited to visit, take part in craft activities, meet Santa and, most importantly, parents and carers choose presents themselves, free of charge, from a pop-up Christmas shop with care and love, just like any other parent..
“We believe every child deserves to wake up to the excitement of Christmas morning – and every parent deserves the dignity of making that moment happen,” said Emma from First Days.
“It’s not about charity.
”It’s about community.”
First Days is encouraging local residents, businesses, and schools to join their Christmas campaign to become Magic Makers – people who help bring joy, pride, and connection to local families during the festive season.
To take part people can donate (£25 can provide a meaningful, handpicked gift for one child), buy a child’s gift from the charity’s Amazon wishlist, or organise a toy collection at their school, workplace or community group.
For information, visit: firstdays.net/christmas
