Maria Maguire KC

The Faculty Christmas Collection is organised each year by Maria Maguire KC.

“There is one week to go and things are even tougher for families in this bad weather. Thanks for all who have donated so far. Last year the sum we raised meant that we were able to help families from other Home-start areas across Fife. They were so relieved as they had families in desperate need. It would be amazing if we could help them again. We are not at that level yet but, with more donations we can do it,” she said.

The Faculty Christmas Collection would also be grateful for presents for the parents, as well as Christmas treats such as selection boxes, tins of biscuits, and other sweets and savoury treats which are not too perishable.

These physical donations can be handed in at Faculty Reception at Parliament House between Monday 11 December and Friday 15 December.

Arrangements can also be made to collect items that week by emailing Faculty Superintendent Scott Brownridge: scott.brownridge@advocates.org.uk. On Saturday 16 December 2023 donations can be dropped off at the Laigh Hall at Parliament House from 10am to 11.30am.

Cash donations will be used to buy Asda vouchers for food as food banks are under huge pressure and the number of visits is restricted. They will also be used to buy Christmas dinners for families and warm clothes and blankets.

The money also provides an emergency fund to help families who need urgent help with accommodation, essential items, beds and duvets for children, cookers, fridges and washing machines and helps with activities for families throughout the year. The number of families fleeing domestic abuse or breaking down increases when there is poverty and cash donations can help set up a new safe home.

“These cash donations are used only for the needs of the families – there is nothing spent on charity administration,” said Ms Maguire. Those wishing to make cash donations can do so up until the end December. Simply email Ms Maguire at maria.maguire@advocates.org.uk and she will send the relevant bank details. A gift aid form can be found here.