Maria Maguire KC

It was founded and has been run for the past nine years by Maria Maguire KC. “We are still going strong,” she said. “The money we raise is really making a difference because we are now helping families in Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, East Fife and Levenmouth as well as Glenrothes. They are all so grateful we have stepped in, and they are depending on us.”

Cash donations are used to buy food vouchers and Christmas dinners for families, and provide gas and electricity, baby food, bedding, beds, warm clothes, lunches for children with additional needs, transport to hospital appointments, hygiene products and other essentials. In addition, cash donations provide an emergency fund to help families who need urgent help. “A family of a single mum and three children under the age of five last week lost everything in a house fire,” said Ms Maguire.

“Times this year have been really hard due to the lack of access to mental health services to support those with chronic anxiety and post-natal depression. The money also helps with activities for families all year round – picnics, play sessions and swimming lessons – that families could not access otherwise due to anxiety or which they cannot afford. The move to universal credit is still a problem with a six-week gap for benefit payments and assessment,” she added.

Other suitable donations include new toys, books, games, clothes, pyjamas, accessories or any fun presents for children of all ages (including teenagers). Second-hand bicycles in good condition would be appreciated, as would presents for the parents and Christmas treats such as selection boxes, tins of biscuits, sweets, and savoury treats that are not too perishable.

All donations can be dropped off at Faculty Reception at Parliament Hall in Edinburgh until Saturday 14 December, and on that day they can be delivered to the Laigh Hall. Faculty Superintendent Scott Brownridge can also arrange for items to be collected. For more information on how to donate please click here.