The final carload of foodbank and toy donations has left the University of North Tees, making Christmas a little happier for some of the most disadvantaged families in our community.
Our annual foodbank and toy donation drive has been an enormous success with staff donating thousands of pounds worth of goods.
All the food is going to local foodbanks and gifts for children of all ages to the Salvation Army. All in a bid to make sure some of Stockton and Hartlepool’s most vulnerable families will be enjoying a happier Christmas.
Chief executive Julie Gillon said: “Being honest, we’ve been overwhelmed at how generous our colleagues have been.
“Everyone is affected by the cost-of-living crisis and we expected to see this reflected in our donations this year. Instead, it’s been the opposite.
“Drop off points all around our hospitals have been overflowing with toys, games, toiletries, Christmas food, selection boxes and more.
“We’re proud members of the Teesside community and are happy to help everyone have a happy Christmas.”
Trust volunteer Paul Willows said: “Being a hospital volunteer is always rewarding but this has been so much fun. We’ve been regularly collecting all the food and toys from all over the hospitals. Then we’ve been dropping them off at the foodbanks and Salvation Army in Hartlepool and Stockton.
“We know how much these donations will mean to the families who receive them.
“It’s been a really enjoyable experience – I get to be Santa for a day!”
To find out more about volunteering at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, visit our volunteer webpage.
