Kind-hearted staff and customers at the Tesco Poole Extra helped ensure hundreds of local children had presents to open on Christmas Day, thanks to a festive donation appeal.
The store distributed sackfuls of gifts to 178 children through its ongoing partnership with schools within the TEACH Trust. The donations supported families whose children attend Ad Astra Infant School, Haymoor Junior School, Canford Heath Infant School and Canford Heath Junior School.
The appeal, now in its sixth year, relies on a combination of public donations, contributions from staff, and support from Tesco itself. Gifts were collected through in-store appeals and community fundraising activities in the run-up to Christmas.
Carla Whitemore, the store’s community champion, said the response from local people had once again been overwhelming.
“This is the sixth year of our Christmas present appeal for the four TEACH Trust schools, and we’re as thrilled as ever to be making this donation to families in need,” she said.
“The sacks of gifts came from our ever-generous staff and customers during public appeals, staff donations, Tesco donations and various other events, providing each child with gifts.”
Carla Whitemore
She added that the appeal had taken on even greater importance as many households continue to feel financial pressure.
“In times like this when a lot of people find it more difficult to make ends meet, it’s incredible that we’ve had so much support from our customers,” she said.
“We firmly believe that no child should have to go without at this time of year, which is why we work so hard to get as many sackfuls as we can.”
Carla Whitemore
All of the donated items were distributed locally, helping families who may have struggled to afford Christmas presents alongside other essential costs.
“With the help of our customers, I hope we were able to make Christmas that little bit more special”
Carla Whitemore
The initiative forms part of Tesco’s wider community work across Dorset, with local stores regularly partnering with schools and charities to provide targeted support where it is most needed.
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