Charity Giving Tree is launched this Christmas at Middleton Grange

Middleton Grange is once again teaming up with local charity, Harbour to launch its annual Christmas campaign, the Giving Tree and is calling upon the extraordinary generosity of Hartlepool shoppers to donate presents to local children.

Last year saw a staggering 1,151 gifts donated to the campaign and, now in its 13th year, the Giving Tree will be decked out with special tags, each one specifying details of a child’s age and gender. Customers are invited to take one and purchase a present for a local child.

Mark Rycraft, Middleton Grange Centre manager, said: “We have now had the Giving Tree at the centre for well over a decade and every year the generosity of our shoppers is overwhelming. As a hub of the local community it is our duty to support those who are less fortunate, especially at this time of year and to be able to deliver a happy Christmas to youngsters across the area is something we are fully committed to as a centre team.”

Once a gift has been chosen, customers can then and take it unwrapped to Catcote Metro, Dawson and Sanderson and The Extra Mile for collection. They will then be collected by Harbour and distributed to children whose families are currently receiving help from the charity.

Joanne Horner of Harbour said: “We were so touched by the number of presents we received last year, and we are absolutely delighted to be teaming up with Middleton Grange again this year for this campaign.”

Harbour offers 56 units of refuge accommodation across the North East to women and children who are leaving an abusive relationship. The refuges offer open access, 24-hour cover and a range of support and guidance services for women and children. There is also support available in the community to those who need help and advice about how to keep themselves and their children safe.

Joanne added: “The children and young people we work with have been affected by domestic abuse in their home. Domestic abuse affects each child differently. When they first come to us, they’re often frightened, confused and vulnerable. We listen to them and acknowledge what they have been through then help them to move on from it.

“Christmas is such a special time for most people but if you are going through a difficult time, which our clients are, it can be the opposite. The Giving Tree means children who might not otherwise get a present this year will, which is really special, and we are very grateful to everyone who donates a gift.”

The Giving Tree can be found on the upper level adjacent to Iceland and Savers at Middleton Grange. Gifts can be left every day until 12pm on Christmas Eve.