Chantry Place shopping centre is once again supporting the local charity Alive UK with a Christmas gifts and treats appeal for local children and their caregivers. The appeal, in partnership with the Eastern Daily Press and Norwich Evening News, aims to provide emergency support for people in crisis. Donations of unwrapped gifts, toys, and chocolate treats are welcomed at a collection point on the lower ground floor of Chantry Place until December 17. The shopping centre has also donated 348 selection boxes to Alive UK to support the homelessness charity Shelter, which was raised at a recent charity bingo night held by retailers.
Operations manager Jo Bates expressed gratitude for the generosity of visitors and retailers who already donated over 250 gifts, with hopes of receiving more before the appeal ends. The work of Alive and its team of volunteers in supporting those in need in Norfolk is acknowledged as amazing and inspirational. Last year, the appeal helped over 700 families, and the goal is to help just as many again this year. Donations of new gifts for all ages, including babies, toys for children, and presents for teenagers, are welcomed. In addition, Alive UK is seeking donations of wrapping paper and sticky tape to help with the gift wrapping process.
Chair of trustees and pastor of Alive Church, Jo Thorne, expressed gratitude to Chantry Place and its visitors and retailers for their generosity and emphasized that there is still time to drop off gifts and make a difference to families struggling this Christmas. This collaboration between Chantry Place, Alive UK, and local media outlets highlights the community’s commitment to supporting those in crisis during the holiday season. The appeal not only aims to provide gifts and treats for local children and caregivers, but also helps homeless individuals and families through the donation of selection boxes to Shelter. With the support of the community, the appeal hopes to have a positive impact on the lives of many families during the holiday season.
