FCHO Winter Giving Appeal returns this Christmas to show our communities we care

Around 1,500 FCHO customers and members of local community groups who might otherwise go without will have special gifts to open on Christmas Day, thanks to the generosity of businesses in our supply chain and kind-hearted FCHO colleagues.

Every year we organise our FCHO Winter Giving Appeal to spread Christmas cheer among customers in greatest need. Once again contractors and members of our team have embraced the appeal, donating a staggering £4,000 worth of contributions, vouchers, warm packs and gifts to make a difference in our communities.

And this year we’ve joined forces with more local organisations to help maximise our impact in our borough.

FCHO customers and students from Oldham College lent a hand with gift-wrapping, and pupils from Waterhead Academy in Lees Holy Cross Primary School in St Mary's sent warm wishes through over 300 handmade Christmas cards for customers who access our Live Well service. Meanwhile, Year 8 students at Brian Clarke Church of England Academy in Oldham Town Centre, have assembled personalised hampers to brighten up the holidays for families in need.

Naomi Martin-Smith, organiser and FCHO’s Learning and Development Co-ordinator, said: “We are truly grateful for the incredible support once again for our Winter Giving Appeal.

“While Christmas is traditionally a time of celebration, we know that ongoing cost of living pressures mean it can be difficult for some. We are committed to helping the communities we serve and our gift collection is an annual fixture organised to provide a helping hand and spread some festive cheer.

Jenny Carey, Library Manager and Worship Coordinator, from Brian Clarke Church of England Academy said: “This project has been a great success and a truly meaningful experience. Students who took part have shown and expressed a great deal of empathy for the struggling families in our local community. Knowing that the hampers we have made are providing a little happiness has been so powerful for both students and their form teachers. Each of the hampers have been put together with lots of love. We hope they will add a sprinkle of joy to lives of the families in Oldham.”

Naomi added: "Thank you everyone who has contributed to making this initiative a success. Your support and generosity have been instrumental in helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. Together, we have shown the power of community and compassion.

“We look forward to continuing this impactful work in the future and hope to inspire even more participation and support. Thank you to colleagues who have been involved this year, your contributions are much appreciated and will bring joy to people.”

Thank you to all our partners who have contributed:

Tree Tops

Limb to Limb

Connolly’s

Sure Maintenance

John McCall Architects

PWA Planning Ltd

Wolseley’s

John McCall Architects

Persimmon Homes

Arca construction

AEB Electricals

Challenger Building Services

Waites

Robwood Construction