18 September 2023

Hot chocolate and marshmallows for Operation Christmas Hamper

Hundreds of tubs of hot chocolate and thousands of mini marshmallows are on their way to Operation Christmas hamper to make sure no child or parent goes without a gift on Christmas Day.

The donation, from The Co-operative Food in Ashley Heights, is one of hundreds of donations which will be needed to make Operation Christmas Hamper a success as it is expecting referrals for at least 500 families this year.

Spearheaded by Charlotte Churchill, the operation has been donating hampers made up of luxury food since 2020. In addition to the hampers filled with the goodies that make the holiday season special, they also provide Christmas presents to families in crisis.

Matthew Cox, Duty Manager at the branch in Ashley Down Road, which is part of Southern Co-op, said: "We recognise the importance of coming together to support families and individuals during challenging times, especially as the cost of living continues to rise.

"It is part of our co-operative values to support local communities which is exactly what Charlotte has been doing - making a difference to people's lives which is inspiring.

"To us, it is 500 tubs of hot chocolate and 500 packets of marshmallows, but to others, this could be a hug in a mug or the luxury they need to brighten this year's Christmas. We're privileged to be involved."

Within days of the referral forms being sent out, Operation Christmas Hamper has already had an overwhelming response. Last year it helped 340 people with hampers in comparison to 37 in 2020.

With the increase in demand, more donations will be needed to help people in Bristol this year such as chocolates, sweets, mince pies, festive cakes, tea and coffee, and much more.

Charlotte Churchill, said: "It's quite extraordinary the interest that this campaign has generated. Christmas means everything to me, I love it. So this has really spurred me on.

"I wanted to make sure that children and adults get something at Christmas. The support has been amazing."

For more information on how you can contribute to Operation Christmas Hamper, which is supported by Bristol City Football Club, Bristol Rovers Club and Gloucestershire Cricket Club, please email OperationChristmasHamper@outlook.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/operationchristmashamper/.