Each year, through our Be a Star Christmas Appeal, The Salvation Army provides gifts for children, support for those who are alone, and festive food parcels or Christmas meals for people facing hardship. Working in partnership with local schools, social services and other agencies, we help ensure that children wake up to gifts on Christmas morning, families can enjoy a Christmas meal with dignity and hope, and older people and vulnerable individuals experience companionship and connection during the festive season. Together, we help ensure that no one in our community feels forgotten or alone at Christmas. Last year we were able to provide presents for 1200 Luton children who would have otherwise gone without a gift at Christmas. We provided over 4000 presents, ensuring each child felt seen at Christmas. We rely heavily on donations of new presents to distribute and purchase gifts ourselves to meet the shortfall. Last year we spend £1200 so we’re asking for your help to ensure we have those funds available again this year to help.

The Salvation Army is a Christian Church & registered Charity working in 130 countries worldwide and is one of the largest and most diverse providers of social welfare in the world. In the UK and Republic of Ireland this work includes more than 800 Salvation Army social service centres and community churches. We provide unconditional friendship, support and very practical help to people in crisis and need and work with children, homeless people, all adult victims of modern slavery and those dealing with drug and/or alcohol addiction.