A Co-operative Food store in Bristol has donated hundreds of tubs of hot chocolate and thousands of mini marshmallows to ensure no child or parent will go without a gift on Christmas Day.
Operations Christmas Hamper has donated hampers made up of luxury foods and Christmas presents to families in crisis since 2020.
The Co-operative Food in Ashley Heights was one of the hundreds of donations which will be needed to make Operation Christmas Hamper a success as it is expecting referrals for at least 500 families this year.
Matthew Cox, duty manager at the branch in Ashley Down Road, which is part of Southern Co-op, said: “We recognise the importance of coming together to support families and individuals during challenging times, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. It is part of our co-operative values to support local communities which is exactly what Charlotte has been doing - making a difference to people’s lives which is inspiring. To us, it is 500 tubs of hot chocolate and 500 packets of marshmallows, but to others, this could be a hug in a mug or the luxury they need to brighten this year’s Christmas. We’re privileged to be involved.”
Last year, Operation Christmas Hamper distributed 340 hampers and for this festive season the initiative has already received an overwhelming response.
Founder of Operation Christmas Hamper, Charlotte Churchill, said: “It’s quite extraordinary the interest that this campaign has generated. Christmas means everything to me, I love it. So this has really spurred me on. I wanted to make sure that children and adults get something at Christmas. The support has been amazing.”
With the increase in demand, more donations have been requested by the campaign to help people in Bristol this year such as chocolates, sweets, mince pies, festive cakes, tea and coffee, and much more.
For more information on how you can contribute to Operation Christmas Hamper, which is supported by Bristol City Football Club, Bristol Rovers Club and Gloucestershire Cricket Club, please email OperationChristmasHamper@outlook.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/operationchristmashamper/.
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