Leighton Buzzard charity KidsOut saved Christmas for mothers and children in refuge

Around 400 children across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Buckinghamshire were expected to be living in a women’s aid refuge during the festive season. However, the donation, from the Morrisons Foundation, helped the charity to create a magical Christmas for the children by delivering gifts and offering families food vouchers.

Speaking in December, Sandra Doherty, KidsOut’s head of children’s services, said: “The whole KidsOut team is so thankful to the Morrison’s Foundation for this generous grant.

“ With this support, we will be able to bring much-needed smiles to victims of domestic violence this Christmas.

“This project will have a transformative effect on how children and their mothers experience the festive season in refuge.

“With Covid still impacting society at large, support for those who have faced domestic violence is more important than ever.

“The vouchers will help alleviate any financial strain faced by mothers when purchasing essential groceries while the toys will enhance social and educational development, family bonding, and long-term mental health.

“KidsOut works in the heart of communities to ensure the children who need it most can experience some fun and happiness in their lives.”

Keen KidsOut fund-raiser and Morrisons Leighton Buzzard Community Champion, Katharine Smith,said: “I’ve worked with KidsOut for a number of years, organising and attending events.

“KidsOut is very close to my heart and I’m absolutely delighted that a grant was approved by the Morrisons Foundation which helped to keep children happy this Christmas.”

The Morrisons Foundation was set up by Morrisons supermarket in 2015 and awards grants for charity projects which help improve people’s lives.

Since launching, over £32 million has been donated to hundreds of charities across England, Scotland and Wales.

Local charities: visit www.morrisonsfoundation.com to find out how to apply for a grant.