Christmas gifts from fundraiser delivered to Sunderland's poorly youngsters and staff at Sunderland Royal Hospital

Every year fundraiser Emma Olsen dedicates her time to raise funds to buy presents for poorly youngsters in hospital over Christmas and has donated hundreds of presents over the years.

But due to the challenges the Covid-19 pandemic has cause, the 35-year-old mum feared it might not be possible.

Grindon Young People’s Centre, where she volunteers, decided to run a sponsor a child appeal to help make this year’s hospital present drop happen.

Emma said: “It’s been a very different year and because of the restrictions we haven’t been able to host fundraising events or even go bag packing at supermarkets.

“The sponsored child appeal made it happen and we were able to take boxes of gifts with selection boxes, books, toys, gift sets and teddies down to the hospital.

"We also put together hampers for staff working on the children’s wards and the ICU which we were able to leave with staff at reception too.

"If this has put a smile on one child’s face then it’s worth it.”

Grindon Young People’s Centre has also been helping to support the local community through their Christmas Grotto which included a pre-loved toys and clothing shop providing essentials to those families who are struggling.

They also gave out 600 Santa presents as part of the socially distanced grotto and were able to deliver 70 Christmas packs to the families of children in the holiday club which can’t currently run due to Covid restrictions.

Chairman Ray Knox said: “Individuals have been so generous and supportive this year and I do think that’s partly to do with Covid.

“The pre-loved shop has supported so many families and those who do need help are able to take whatever they need.

"When you see a family come in and the children are wearing sandals in December because they have no other shoes but you can send them out with a new pair and a warm winter coat, it means so much.

"I want to thank all the volunteers who have made this possible, dedicated their time and helped keep everything Covid secure.”

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