Story

The Giving Tree Story

Belfast Central Mission (BCM) is calling on individuals, businesses, schools, churches and community groups across Northern Ireland to support its Giving Tree Christmas Toy Appeal, helping to ensure more than 2,000 children and young people experience the magic of Christmas.

Now in its 27th year, the appeal is delivered in partnership with the Department for Communities and relies on the generosity of local people who donate gifts, fundraise or volunteer their time. Together, supporters help provide Christmas presents to children and young people who may otherwise go without.

Based in Belfast, BCM has been supporting individuals, families and communities across Northern Ireland for almost 140 years. Every Christmas, the charity transforms its facilities into a major gift collection, sorting and distribution operation, working alongside volunteers, local businesses, churches and community organisations to deliver gifts to families who need them most.

Last year's appeal saw unprecedented support from donors and volunteers, enabling BCM to provide more gifts per child than ever before. Supporters travelled from as far as Scotland to play their part in making Christmas brighter for local families.

Nicky Conway, Chief Executive of Belfast Central Mission, said:

"Christmas should be a time of excitement and anticipation for every child, but we know that many families across Northern Ireland continue to face significant financial challenges. Through the Giving Tree Appeal, local people have the opportunity to make a real difference by helping ensure thousands of children wake up to a gift on Christmas morning.

For nearly three decades, this appeal has demonstrated the incredible generosity that exists within our communities. Every donation, every gift purchased and every hour volunteered helps bring joy, hope and dignity to families who need support most.

"We would encourage individuals, workplaces, schools, churches and community groups to get involved and help us make Christmas 2026 special for thousands of children across Northern Ireland."

Grainia Long, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Communities, said:

We are delighted again to have this opportunity to continue our partnership with Belfast Central Mission in support of the annual ‘Giving Tree’ Appeal. Each year our teams in offices across Northern Ireland look forward to joining together to donate toys and gifts for children in our local communities in the hope that as many children as possible will have a smile on their face this Christmas morning.

More Information

Each year, BCM receives family referrals from around 50 organisations, including Sure Start nurseries, community groups and social care agencies. Through these partnerships, thousands of children across Belfast and beyond receive gifts at Christmas.

"For the last 27 years, the Giving Tree Appeal has helped make Christmas brighter for thousands of children and families. At a time when household budgets are stretched and expectations are high, every gift brings joy to a child and valuable relief to families facing financial hardship. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supports the appeal through donations, volunteering and fundraising."

Alison Irvine, BCM Volunteer Coordinator and Toy Appeal Project Lead

For one week each December, BCM's historic Grosvenor Hall on Glengall Street becomes a festive distribution hub. In the lead-up to the appeal, BCM and DfC staff also purchase hundreds of toys using funds donated through this JustGiving campaign. Together with gifts donated by churches, businesses and individuals, these are sorted and packed by a dedicated team of volunteers before being distributed to families through referral agencies across Belfast and beyond.

The appeal is a remarkable example of community partnership, bringing together volunteers, churches, local businesses, the Department for Communities, and other government departments to support families who need it most at Christmas.

Why It Matters

Your donation brings hope and helps ensure that no child wakes up without a gift - and no parent feels the pressure of choosing between bills and Christmas joy. In 2025, well over 2,000 children received toy bags filled by volunteers with a main toy, novelty gifts, stationery, hats, scarves, crafts, books and more.

Thank you.