Christmas can be a difficult period for some.

But the human spirit of generosity can always be relied on to offer support to those most in need, particularly during Christmas time.

In Stockport, The Giving Tree scheme continues to provide a steadying hand to the most vulnerable in the community, ensuring that nobody in need will go without a present on Christmas Day.

What is The Giving Tree?

The Giving Tree scheme was introduced by Merseyway Central Manager Victoria Nichol 2018, after she heard that some families were struggling to pay for Christmas presents.

"There would be children not getting anything for Christmas," Victoria said, "and if they did get anything through food banks or children's charities, they might not get what they wanted on their Christmas list."

The Giving Tree scheme was launched from this foundation, and has enjoyed an impressive run, with donations steadily increasing for each of its five existing years.

The scheme is simple: tags containing a child or person's age, gender, and a wish from their Christmas list are placed on trees around the Stockport borough. 

Find the Giving Tree in Merseyway Shopping Centre - if you'd like to donate a gift, just take a tag and make someone's Christmas that bit more special! (Image - Nub News)

These can be taken down by members of the public, who go and buy the item. They bring the gift, unwrapped, to a collection point near the tree. The presents are then distributed to the people they were intended for. Often these distributions will take place at schools or community centres.

Last year, more than 7,000 presents and essentials were provided to local children and adults across Stockport. An additional 386 warm winter items were collected which were dispersed among the most vulnerable, along with information about staying warm in the harsh winter months.

This year, the scheme is running until Sunday 14 December. If you'd like to take part, just visit the white Christmas tree in the Merseyway Centre and pick up a gift tag.

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