£15,000 raised for presents for children in care

Children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Lewisham have been given support and presents after £15,000 was raised in donations.

Funds raised by the Mayor of Lewisham’s Winter Appeal bought Christmas presents and delivered support to children in care and also children from homeless and refugee families in the borough.

The Winter Appeal was launched on Black Friday and worked with the 999 Club and Voluntary Services Lewisham (VSL) to support vulnerable children over the winter.

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said: “I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated to the Winter Appeal.

“We have been blown away by the kindness and generosity of residents who dug deep to help make Christmas special for children in care.

“Not only that, but the money will also support the 999 Club and VSL to continue their vital work over the winter months.

“We’re thrilled to have raised over £15,000 in what was another tough year for so many. Every donation has helped make a big difference and is testament to Lewisham’s strong community spirit.”

The 999 Club, a Deptford-based charity that supports people experiencing homelessness, used the donations to purchase packs of toiletries and household goods for families with children moving into new homes.

VSL, a charity which has been supporting vulnerable Lewisham residents for over 50 years, used the donations to buy books, presents and gift vouchers for vulnerable children and teenagers across the borough.