The appeal, which began during Care Leavers Month, aims to ensure that young people transitioning out of care feel remembered, valued, and supported during the challenging Christmas period. Plymouth City Council currently supports 271 care leavers aged 18 to 24, with an additional 117 young people able to access ongoing support. For many, Christmas can be a particularly difficult time due to the absence of the support networks many take for granted.
Members of the public can contribute by donating gifts via Christmas Gift Trees located at Ballard House, the Council House, and Plymouth Central Library, or by purchasing items from the Care Leavers Amazon Wish List. Financial contributions can also be made through the appeal's online fundraising page. Gift tags on the trees will offer present ideas, and purchased gifts should be returned by 18 December for collection, wrapping, and gifting.
Businesses and organisations are also invited to participate by hosting a Gift Tree, making a donation, sponsoring aspects of the appeal, or encouraging staff involvement. Councillor Jemima Laing, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Children's Services, highlighted the importance of community support, stating, "No young person should feel forgotten at Christmas, and together we can help make sure they feel valued, remembered and cared for."
Councillor Laing drew parallels with the city's successful 'Bear Campaign', emphasising Plymouth's generosity in supporting young people. She added, "Whether it's buying a gift, taking a tag from one of our Christmas trees, or making a donation, every act of kindness will help show a young person that somebody is thinking of them this Christmas."
The appeal will provide gifts and support for care-experienced young people across Plymouth, including contributions to the annual Care Leavers Christmas Lunch. Those wishing to support can donate via the Care Leavers Amazon Wish List (deadline 18 December 2026) or make a financial contribution through the online fundraising page (deadline 1 December 2026).
