Lib Dem councillors on Milton Keynes City Council are appealing to residents to embrace the joy of giving this Christmas by supporting local charities through donations and regifting unwanted items.
Local charities such as MK Food Bank and MK Act rely heavily on community support to provide essential services to vulnerable residents across the city.
The cost-of-living crisis has caused a drastic drop in donations and with increased pressure on much sought-after services, it means charities are struggling to keep up with demand.
With the festive season fast approaching, Lib Dem councillors are encouraging residents to embrace the spirit of Christmas by donating any unwanted gifts and essential items to help struggling households.
Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Milton Keynes City Council, Councillor Paul Trendall, said:
“Having volunteered at the Food Bank since the pandemic, I have seen firsthand how rapidly demand for food has risen over the last few years, especially in the run up to Christmas. MK Food Bank do incredible work and help to ease some of the financial pressure felt by vulnerable residents, but stock is currently very low. To provide some much-needed relief to households facing difficult times please donate if you can.”
MK Food Bank urgently need items such as long-life milk, biscuits, and cereal, but the charity are also in need of Christmas cakes, snacks, and crisps so they can continue to help people in need over the festive period.
With over 8000 households across the city in fuel poverty, families are struggling to afford the basics and with Christmas just around the corner, it has added more pressure on families as they will find it difficult to buy gifts or treats for their children this year.
Figures from MK Community Foundation’s Invisible Poverty appeal show that more than 1 in 3 children in Milton Keynes are living in poverty.
Councillor Sophie Bell, spokesperson for Child Poverty, added:
“Christmas is a difficult time for struggling families, especially children. But the spirit of Christmas doesn’t have to end on Christmas Day. By regifting duplicate or unwanted presents, we can continue to support children in need going into the new year.”
