Every Christmas, Oasis Church Bath runs Give a Gift, a reverse advent calendar where we collect items that are then distributed between a number of projects, including Make Lunch (our holiday hunger programme). We know that these hampers are always really appreciated by the families who receive them, and the feedback we get each year is that people are overwhelmed by the generosity they experience.

This year, the need for additional support is even greater than before, and due to Covid the way in which we can reach people has had to change. Instead of asking you to buy and collect items for our reverse advent calendar, were inviting you to take part in our Give a Gift FESTIVE FIVER FUNDRAISER.

Wed love to provide FIVE different bags to each of our Make Lunch families this Christmas, each bag costing around a FESTIVE FIVER to provide. The bags will contain;

1. Childrens activities

2. Christmas Party in a Bag

3. Christmas snacks and treats

4. Festive drinks (non-alcoholic)

5. Store cupboard staples

Normally, our Christmas Make Lunch sessions would essentially be a big party lots of craft and gift making for children and for adults, a full, two-course Christmas dinner, and a hamper of food and gifts to take away. We cant replicate that this year, so weve taken those elements and want to provide them where we can. The craft sessions are so popular, so weve themed this bag around fun kids crafts, which are then also Christmas decorations they can display in their homes. The Party in a bag will provide other party elements crackers, decorations etc to create that festive atmosphere. I think we all love a Christmas snack, especially when accompanied by a hot chocolate or cuppa! In our October deliveries we included a recipe booklet Lets Cook Together, along with some cookery equipment, focussed on using store cupboard essentials. Were doing that again this time with some Christmas recipes, gingerbread biscuit kits for adults and children to bake together, and activities for the whole family.

Wed love to support 60 families this Christmas, which means we want to fund 300 bags. If you are able, please donate what you can. Every single £5 will buy one bag for a family, and will be so appreciated.