The appeal is needed more than ever this year, as local children and their families continue to face the severe effects of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Evidence shows that it is the children already most in need who are suffering the greatest impact. Vulnerable families are being pushed deeper into poverty through no fault of their own, creating long-term hardship that may last for years to come.

The lasting effects of the pandemic — including loss of life, rising unemployment, and deteriorating mental health — have only added to the difficulties faced by families who were already struggling. Many have now been pushed back into need and are desperately requiring support.

Every child we help is living with the daily reality of poverty, often alongside multiple challenges such as poor or temporary housing, food insecurity, poor wellbeing, emotional and behavioural difficulties, disability or additional needs, abuse or violence, bereavement, or educational underachievement.

At Christmas, these families do not receive extra income to help provide gifts or festive food. Instead, they are expected to stretch an income that is already insufficient, leaving many unable to give their children the experiences that so many of us take for granted.

Together, we can make a real difference for Newham’s most disadvantaged, vulnerable, and at-risk children this Christmas.