Some of the district’s most vulnerable children and young people can expect a brighter Christmas thanks to staff from Folkestone & Hythe District Council.

Hundreds of presents are being distributed to 182 youngsters of different ages as part of this year’s Wish Upon A Star campaign, which sees members of the council’s teams buy and wrap presents. 

F&HDC runs the annual project as a tribute to former housing prevention officer – and former Wish Upon a Star organiser – Nicola Baker, who died in November 2018.

Nicola’s daughter Christina said: “Mum would have been absolutely thrilled and overwhelmed by this. It was really important to her that all children had a good Christmas – that’s what she did for us and it extended to others. On behalf of my brother and sister, our thanks to all.” 

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Wish Upon A Star is always well supported, but this year our staff have gone above and beyond. 

“They care greatly for the community they live and work in and I know that each and every present was chosen with care and love. For some of the children, this will be the only gift they receive, so I know they will bring extra joy.”

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee

The presents have been collected by Kent County Council’s Early Help, Youth Offending, Adolescent Support and Children’s Social Services teams and will be delivering the gifts to the 182 youngsters in time for Christmas.

By Ed

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