Building on six years of care, kindness and community

Children and Family Health Devon’s annual Christmas Hamper Project returns for its seventh year in 2026, continuing to bring warmth, comfort and practical support to young people and care leavers across Devon and Torbay.

What began in 2020 as a small act of kindness during an extraordinarily challenging time has grown into a much-valued annual tradition. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the project continues to reach more young people each year, offering not just essential items but a powerful reminder that they are seen, valued and cared for.

Looking back: the impact of 2025

Last year marked another milestone in the project’s journey. In 2025, we delivered 250 thoughtfully prepared hampers filled with practical items to support emotional and physical wellbeing. From warm winter essentials to everyday toiletries and small festive treats, each hamper was created with care.

Through our JustGiving campaign alone, supporters helped raise over £2.1k, alongside generous donations from individuals, local businesses and partner organisations. Every contribution helped ensure that young people facing difficult circumstances felt remembered at Christmas.

The feedback we receive from young people and families shows just how meaningful these hampers can be.

One young parent told us, “It was really good. The body soap was really nice and my little one always wears the hat that he got. Thank you, it was amazing.”

Another recipient shared, “The hamper was very creative for both children and adults. It felt very magical. My favourite items were the Bluey hat and scarf for my child. He wears them all the time.”

Others highlighted the value of everyday essentials, with one young person saying, “I liked everything in it, especially the towel and the blanket.”

We also listen carefully to suggestions from those who receive the hampers so we can keep improving them each year.

Our journey so far

The Christmas Hamper Project was launched in 2020 by a small team of children in care nurses during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was created to bring festive cheer to care experienced young people across Devon at a time of heightened uncertainty and isolation.

Since then, the need has only grown. Today, the project supports more than 500 care leavers, including young parents, young people living in emergency or temporary accommodation, those at risk of isolation, and young asylum seekers with no family in the UK. We also support young people living in 16+ accommodation across the county.

This work is only possible because of the strong partnerships we have built with colleagues in Devon and Torbay social care, voluntary sector organisations, local businesses and generous members of the community. Together, we pack and deliver hampers across Devon and, where needed, beyond.

Looking ahead to 2026

As we launch the 2026 Christmas Hamper Project, our ambition is simple: to reach even more young people and ensure that no care leaver in our community feels forgotten at Christmas.

With rising living costs and ongoing pressures, practical support is more important than ever. A warm blanket, essential toiletries, winter clothing or a small gift can make a meaningful difference to someone navigating independence without the safety net of family.

How you can support the 2026 campaign

Your support continues to be at the heart of this project. Donations via our JustGiving page help us purchase essential items and tailor hampers to individual needs. We also warmly welcome physical items such as toiletries, soft blankets or large soft towels. Our Amazon Wish List will launch later in the year, allowing you to send items directly, or you can contact the team at dpt.openup@nhs.net to discuss other ways to contribute. If you would like to arrange a drop-off, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.

Our ongoing commitment

As part of Open Up, the registered charity of Devon Partnership NHS Trust, we remain dedicated to improving the day-to-day experiences of people receiving care. Through initiatives like the Christmas Hamper Project, we aim to encourage recovery, promote wellbeing and strengthen the sense of belonging within our communities.

Thank you for being part of this journey. With your continued support, Christmas 2026 can bring comfort, dignity and hope to the young people and care leavers who need it most.