News Maidstone’s charity Christmas donation hub ready to deliver hope and happiness

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) and The Mall are asking for people to help make Christmas happen for people who are struggling to celebrate this year by donating to a charity hub.

The MBC hub will be opened by The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Martin Round, On Monday, 24 November, and is supporting local charities who will distribute the donated items to those people who need them most.

In partnership with The Mall Maidstone, the Council is running the Christmas Donation Hub again this year, and will be collecting donated festive gifts, decorations, toys and food items for those who may not otherwise be able to afford to celebrate this year.

The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Martin Round said: “Christmas is a joyful time for many, but it’s important to remember that it can also be a season of struggle, whether due to financial hardship or the deep loneliness some people face.

“The Charity Christmas Donation Hub has been set up to bring a little happiness to those finding this time of year difficult. That joy might come in the form of a toy for a child or a sweet treat for an elderly person who might otherwise be overlooked.

“By donating to the hub, you’re sharing kindness, and that generosity reflects the caring, compassionate spirit of the people of Maidstone. I’m honoured to have been invited to open the hub and thank the amazing volunteers who will be running it.”

One of the chosen charities, Wishing Hearts, spoke of the value the hub has brought to them in previous years: “We collect donations to distribute to elderly people living in the community who might need some extra Christmas cheer. Last year made such an enormous difference and we are looking forward to seeing some smiley faces this Christmas.”

Suzie Brindle Marketing Manager of The Mall Maidstone added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to see the Christmas Donation Hub returning to The Mall for the third year. The idea first began here at The Mall as a way to bring the community together and make a real difference at what can be a difficult time of year for so many.

It’s wonderful to see how much it’s grown, with local residents, charities, and the Council all coming together to spread kindness and festive cheer. Every single donation helps make Christmas a little brighter for someone in need, and we’re so proud to host the hub once again.”

The Christmas Donation Hub is located near the food court area on the middle level of the Mall at until 203, and will be open to receive donations of new children’s toys (we’re sorry but we are not able to take used or second hand items), festive gifts, Xmas decorations and non-perishable food items.

The charities that the project is supporting include:

• Age UK Maidstone
• Blackthorn Trust
• Fusion Healthy Living Centre
• Street Pastors
• Making a Difference to Maidstone (MADM)
• Maidstone Community Support Centre
• Mid Kent Mind
• The Princess Project
• Trinity Community Centre
• Wishing Hearts

The hub, (staffed by volunteers), will run from Monday 24 November to Saturday 6 December, Monday – Friday 10am to 2pm and Saturday- 10am to 4pm

To find out more about the Maidstone Christmas Family Appeal please go to the community pages on the MBC website: www.maidstone.gov.uk

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