2025 Christmas appeal

It’s that time again! Help us bring a smile to a young child’s face this festive season by donating a gift to our Christmas Appeal.

For most people, Christmas is a joyful time. A time to celebrate, get together with family and friends, and look forward to the future. 

But for many women and children seeking asylum, it can be hard to step away from their daily worries. Many of the women face severe financial hardship, often having to choose between essential items such as food, hygiene products, and transport.

Women accommodated in hotels under the asylum system receive under £10 per week, while those in other types of asylum accommodation receive around £49 per week to cover all basic needs. This leaves no money for women to join in with festivities or buy gifts.

That’s why we’re asking our wonderful supporters to #GiftTheJoy this Christmas.

How to donate to the appeal

Joining our appeal is easy – simply buy a present for a child and drop it off with us. Our elves are on hand to wrap your gift and give it to a child in our network. If you’re stuck, we’ve put a few ideas for gifts below, along with instructions on where to drop off your donation.

Every present will help make this Christmas special for a child seeking asylum.

What if you can’t buy a gift?

If you’re unable to donate a gift but would still like to support the women and children in our network, you can also make a cash donation. Our elves will use the funds to buy a gift on your behalf.

Gift ideas

Any new, unopened gift suitable for a child is very welcome. But here are some suggestions:

• 0–3 years: soft toys, books, dolls, baby clothes, bath toys, building blocks.

• 4–6 years: toys, dolls, action figures, puzzles, colouring books and pencils.

• 7–9 years: books, learning games, toys, colouring books, jigsaws.

• 10–12 years: books, hair accessories, gloves and scarves.

• 13–16 years: books, toiletries, stationery, t-shirts, gloves and hats.

Please note: we’re unable to accept used or second-hand items.

Where should you drop off your gift?

Please post or drop off your gift at our main office, where our Christmas elves are ready to wrap it!

Central Methodist Buildings, Oldham Street, Manchester,  M1 1JQ

When should you drop off your gift?

We’d love to have all the gifts ready to wrap by Friday 19th December.

And of course, we know money is tight for everyone right now. So you can also help us just by spreading the word (and cheer!) with #GiftTheJoy.