A KIND-HEARTED couple from Evesham has made it their mission to give struggling families a decent Christmas.
Kelly and Kyle Hotchkins are appealing to members of the public and businesses to support them in their goal by donating toys, items of food, toiletries and cash.
The idea first started in 2022 when Kyle heard about local people who were going without due to the cost-of-living crisis and was determined to do something about it.
An initial Facebook post asking if anyone needed help has developed into Claus for Clause, a registered charity set up in September that aims to prevent and relieve poverty in the Evesham area.
In 2022 they helped 30 Worcestershire families with a Christmas dinner and presents. Last year the couple supplied 185 children with presents and 28 families with Christmas dinner and a week’s shopping.
They are driven by the knowledge that without the charity’s help, the people they support would have next to nothing to open on Christmas Day morning and no Christmas dinner.
Kelly told the Observer it was Kyle’s idea as he wanted to help people as the cost of living was rising. “He knew that his kids were opening Christmas presents and enjoyed life without having to want for anything so wanted to know that every other child in the area was opening gifts on the same day his were.
“He said this world is going crazy and people we know can’t afford to buy anything. We shouldn’t be living like this and I want to help. That’s when he put the Facebook post out.”
“We know we can’t help everybody but luckily we are in a position where we can enjoy Christmas and help others out as well.”
The couple, who have two children and full-time jobs, also put on affordable, fun events throughout the year and work to help families who might struggle with getting basic household items.
People in need are referred to the couple by their GP, health worker, school or nursery.
The community can get involved in many ways by purchasing toys and taking them to several drop-off points throughout the area, buying them directly via a special Amazon link and donating money through the website. Businesses can opt to become a corporate sponsor.
There is also a ‘wishes’ tree in PureGym, Evesham and Asda in Stratford. Toy donations are being accepted until December 21.
Claus for a Cause has recently taken over the Alcester-based Give a Gift project started by Alcester Minster churches so is also operating over the border into Warwickshire.
Visit clausforacauseevesham.co.uk or for latest information and list of participating drop-off points, search for Claus for a Cause on Facebook.
