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Helping Others This Christmas

It’s often said that Christmas is a time for giving and there are plenty of opportunities to give to others in and around Newcastle in the lead up to Christmas. Whether you donate a gift to someone in need or take time over the festive season to volunteer, your kindness will be greatly appreciated and will definitely put you on Santa’s nice list!

Reverse Advent Calendar

This unique idea puts an entirely new spin on advent. The concept is simple; instead of taking out a sweet or chocolate every day in the countdown to Christmas, you fill up your own ‘advent calendar’ every day with food items, clothing, toys etc. which can then be taken to a local food bank or given to charity to help others.

Even though Christmas is edging closer, there’s still time to start your own reverse advent calendar. Check out the #reverseadventcalendar hashtag to see how others are taking on the challenge.

Mission Christmas

If you listen to Metro Radio, you might have heard of this one…

Christmas can be the most difficult time for hundreds of families, with the pressure of buying the best and most expensive gifts mounting every year. Mission Christmas aims to give disadvantaged kids presents to open when they wake up Christmas morning. You can do your bit by dropping off new and unwrapped gifts at drop off points around the city. Find one close to you here.

Food Banks

Local food banks are always in need of donations but never more so than over the festive period. Here are just a few of the local food banks that will appreciate your help this Christmas:

Newcastle West End Foodbank

The Trussell Trust Food Bank

Gateshead Foodbank

Volunteering

You could take the idea of giving even further by donating your time over Christmas. Volunteering can be one of the most gratifying experiences. It’s the perfect way to meet new people and spread festive cheer. 

The People’s Kitchen and Crisis are just a few of the North East charities on the lookout for volunteers this Christmas.

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