The Trafford-based charity Little Green Sock Project is bringing joy to over 250 children and their families this festive season with its annual Christmas Shop initiative, despite facing an urgent funding crisis.
The charity has distributed over £17,000 worth of gifts, including toys, stocking fillers, Christmas pyjamas, jumpers, wrapping paper, and even special gifts for parents. The annual initiative supports local families most in need during the festive season, ensuring children wake up to the magic of Christmas despite the financial pressures many are facing.
Earlier this month it was announced that the baby bank, located in Stretford Mall, is set to be demolished in 2025 as part of Stretford Council’s redevelopment plans, leaving the charity with no choice but to raise £200,000 to secure a lease on a new site by January.
Its Save Our Baby Bank campaign has raised £33,700 which is 16% of the final target. As part of the cry for aid, the initiative has received a much-needed lifeline from the AJ Bell Futures Foundation, a UK registered charity backed by investment platform AJ Bell which has donated £20,000 to help the charity in its urgent mission to secure new premises.
“We’re overwhelmed by the generosity of our community this Christmas and this incredible donation from AJ Bell,” said Catherine D’Albertanson, Founder of Little Green Sock Project. “But as we celebrate bringing festive cheer to so many children, we’re also grappling with the reality that time is running out to save our Baby Bank. The support we provide is a lifeline for families in crisis. Without a new home, we won’t be able to continue helping those who need us most.”
Elizabeth Carrington, AJ Bell Futures Foundation trustee, commented: “As we approach two years since the AJ Bell Futures Foundation was launched with the aim to make a positive impact on the lives of people in our local communities, it’s a genuine pleasure to be able to support such a fantastic charity in the Little Green Sock Project.
“Many families have felt the sharp end of the cost-of-living crisis over the past few years and local schemes such as baby banks have been vital to ensure support is provided to those who need it most. By working with the Little Green Sock Project, we hope to help prevent the closure of the only baby bank in the Trafford area so that it can secure new premises and continue in its mission to prevent the most vulnerable children from going without the essentials they need to get by.”
Little Green Sock Project provides essential items for babies and children, including clothing, nappies, prams and cots, as well as support for parents navigating financial hardship. Since its launch in 2022, the charity has helped 1,300 children across Trafford and Greater Manchester, providing crucial support to those facing difficult circumstances.
Despite this huge donation, the baby bank is still in dire need for support, with over £165K still to be raised to save its life-changing services for the community. With the clock ticking, the charity is urging businesses, community members, and local authorities to rally behind its fundraising efforts. Donations can be made via the charity’s website or by contacting the team directly to discuss ways to help.
To donate, please visit the JustGiving page here. Or to find out more visit the website here.
