Kirkcaldy family centre launches its Christmas appeal

The charity is looking for monetary donations, donations of non-perishable food items as well as new toys and clothing to ensure that no child or family in Kirkcaldy and surrounding areas experiences a difficult Christmas.

The centre is launching its appeal slightly earlier than usual this year to make sure it has adequate time to accept donations, plan, prepare and to reach out to any families in our communities who are facing financial hardship this Christmas.

The Cottage Family Centre’s aim is to relieve pressure and prevent families, who may already be struggling, taking on further financial commitments.

With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic the reality is that the challenge of this year’s appeal will be greater than ever before.

Last year, 1,271 children and their families were supported, but because of the impact of Covid-19 and lockdown it is expected many more people will need crisis support and intervention.

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Pauline Buchan, centre manager said: “This has been a very difficult year for all of us – and for vulnerable people living in poverty it has been especially bleak.

“Every day we have heard from families who can’t afford to feed their kids, who are struggling to heat their homes or buy warm clothes and coats to see

them through the cold winter months.

“That’s just not right. Goodness knows that this year, people and families deserve to celebrate Christmas and make memories - no matter whether they have money or not.

“Our Christmas campaign is all about making sure nobody misses out.”

Pauline also paid tribute to the overwhelming wealth of support the Cottage campaign always receives each year.

She added: “In previous years, the local community, businesses, groups and organisations have stepped up and shown their generosity time and time

again.

“We are so very grateful for the kindness and help but this year we need this support more than ever.

“There are ranges of ways you can support and there is no too small donation – it might not feel much to you but to children living in poverty it means everything. It shows them people care and gives them a memory that can last a lifetime. That’s priceless.”

How you can get involved and make sure that no child or family is hungry, cold or without any presents this Christmas.

The Cottage needs donations for families and children aged 0 to 16 of new clothing, pyjamas, new toys, toiletries, non-perishable food items and baby milk

Unfortunately, loved, second-hand items can’t be accepted for health and safety reasons.

Donations can be dropped off directly to: The Cottage Family Centre, 29-31 Cawdor Crescent Kirkcaldy, KY2 6LH or The Cottage Family Centre, 34 St Clair St, Kirkcaldy KY1 2QE until 5pm on Wednesday, December 16, 2020.

Monetary donations can be made via bank transfer using Cot Xmas App as a reference: Sort Code 80-16-84, Account Number 06006462.

Or you can also donate to the Cottage Crowdfunder page at: The Cottage Family Centre Christmas Appeal

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