Community spirit in St Helens shines bright as annual Christmas Gift Appeal marks 15 years
Kind-hearted residents, businesses, and organisations have come together to make Christmas special for some of the borough's most disadvantaged families and young people by supporting the council's annual Christmas Gift Appeal.
Article date: 19 December 2025
Now in its 15th year, the appeal provides gifts for children and young people from birth to 21 years old - including care leavers - who might otherwise wake up on Christmas Day without a present. Over the years, tens of thousands of donations have been made, including toys, books, clothing, and food. This year alone, close to 1,000 gift sacks have been lovingly prepared, each tailored to the recipient's hobbies and interests.
Over the past week, a dedicated team of volunteers has been hard at work playing Santa's elves, packing donations into bundles and hampers ready for delivery in time for Christmas. Among those lending a hand was Councillor Nova Charlton, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People.
"The generosity of our borough never ceases to amaze me," said Councillor Charlton.
"Residents, businesses, and organisations in St Helens are renowned for coming together to support those less fortunate, and this year's appeal is a shining example of that spirit.
" A special thanks goes to our gift appeal organiser, Tracy Sexton, who does a marvellous job year after year; to all the volunteers who have given up their time to ensure donations are packed and ready; and of course, to everyone who contributed in the true spirit of Christmas, reflecting the #LoveStHelens ethos and our With You For You approach to supporting our residents."
Following the sudden death of former St Helens Borough Council Chief Executive, Carole Hudson, in November 2019 - the council's gift appeal is now associated with Carole's name as a legacy of her work with children and young people.