Three Nines Children’s Charity has been deeply moved by the messages and feedback received from children and families who were supported through our Christmas Wishbox campaign over the festive period.
In recent weeks, families have been sharing how the gifts and experiences provided helped bring comfort, joy and reassurance at a time when many were facing unimaginable loss and trauma.
Anne Campbell Gunn, CEO of Three Nines Children’s Charity, said: “We’ve received some very special messages from the children themselves, as well as from some very grateful parents who told us that without our help, Christmas would have been miserable for their family. We’d like to say a big thank you to every supporter who chose to buy an extra gift this year for a child impacted by crime by dipping into our online Christmas Wishbox, which showcased the gifts our children most wanted Santa to deliver.”
Through our Christmas Wishbox campaign, children referred to Three Nines were able to choose a gift that they truly wanted, and members of the public generously purchased these presents through our online shop. Every gift helped ensure that each child felt seen, remembered and cared for, bringing joy, excitement, and a sense of festive magic at Christmas.
One dad, whose family was supported through the Christmas Wishbox, shared: “Thank you so much for the presents. The children were so happy and grateful – it really cheered them up during such a difficult time.”
Alongside public support, over 100 children received gifts thanks to the incredible generosity of Kids Out, who donated a significant number of presents to help ensure that the magic of Christmas reached each child supported by Three Nines.
In addition to gifts, families were also supported with memorable festive experiences. Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland, working in partnership with Kids in Mind Charity, generously donated pantomime tickets for families to attend The Wicked Wizard of Oz at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, giving children and their families the opportunity to enjoy one of the most spectacular professional productions staged during the festive season.
One family, supporting parents and two young children following the homicide of a close family member, shared: “My children were both so excited to get to attend a pantomime, especially when they found out it was a pantomime and circus combined. We all thought the show was fantastic – the circus performers were amazing, and the kids loved every minute.”
They described arriving full of excitement, singing and dancing along to the music, and even being able to turn the experience into a rare family break: “We ended up making a night of our little trip and got a hotel close to the arena. Thank you for providing us with the tickets and allowing us to enjoy a family day out and night away that we otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do. We massively appreciated such a kind gesture given to us in what’s been a difficult time.”
For a family who had lost their eldest son, the timing of the experience made a meaningful difference during the holiday period: “The family had a great time and really enjoyed the show, especially the younger children who were so excited leading up to it. When asked if they would go again, the answer was ‘of course’. It was a great way to take your mind off things during a very difficult period leading up to the New Year.”
At Three Nines, we see every day how moments like these – a gift, a shared experience, time together – can support healing and remind families that hope is still possible after trauma. If you’d like to help create these moments for children and families affected by crime, you can support them through the Hope After Hurt Lottery, which funds vital services, respite breaks and emotional support – while also giving you the chance to win cash prizes. Click here to find out more.
