Reflecting on our journey: 2025 campaign for the Christmas Hamper Project

Children and Family Health Devon’s annual Christmas hamper project is back for its sixth year, continuing to bring warmth and support to young people and care leavers across Devon and Torbay. This initiative, which started in 2020, has grown tremendously thanks to the unwavering generosity of our supporters. Each year, the project provides essential items and thoughtful gifts that make a real difference, bringing joy and comfort to those who need it most.

A growing impact

What began with just 100 hampers in 2020 has now evolved into a heartfelt mission, with last year's effort resulting in 250 hampers filled with practical items to support emotional and physical wellbeing. These hampers are more than just gifts; they represent a message of care, kindness, and community.

Thanks to your support, we raised over £5.5k through our JustGiving page, alongside numerous donations from individuals, local businesses and partner organisations. The impact has been profound and the heartfelt messages from recipients tell the story:

“Wow, this is amazing! I didn’t think I’d get anything this year.”

“These gloves are perfect—I really needed them!”

“I wasn’t expecting a gift. Thank you so much!”

Our journey so far

In 2020, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, a small team of children in care nurses launched this project as a way to bring some festive cheer to care experienced young people across Devon. What started as a modest initiative has now grown into a crucial support system for over 500 care leavers, some of whom are parents, living in emergency accommodation, or young people in isolation or at risk of isolation. Many are young asylum seekers with no family in the UK, as well as those in our 16+ accommodation.

We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of our colleagues in Devon and Torbay social care, charity organisations, local businesses, and the countless individuals who have donated generously. This collaboration allows us to pack and deliver hampers to care leavers both in Devon and beyond.

How you can help

Your support truly makes a lasting difference. Donations via our JustGiving page play a vital role in helping us provide these hampers, but we also warmly welcome physical contributions. If you’d prefer to donate items, we’d be especially grateful for toiletries, soft blankets or large soft towels.

To arrange a drop-off, feel free to get in touch with us. You’ll also be able to use our Amazon wish list, which will be launched closer to the time, or contact our team directly if you’d like to make a donation (dpt.openup@nhs.net).

Our commitment to recovery and wellbeing

As part of the Open Up, which is registered as a Devon Partnership NHS Trust Special Charity, we remain dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of the people we care for. We are committed to encouraging recovery, fostering wellbeing and strengthening connections within our community.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make this Christmas even brighter for the young people and care leavers who need it most.