Christmas is often described as a season of warmth, wonder and excitement. Yet, for many children supported by Befriend a Child, the festive period can feel very different often marked by uncertainty, instability and, in some cases, the absence of even a single gift to open on Christmas morning.
Each year, Befriend a Child’s Giving Tree Appeal helps to change this reality by collecting and distributing Christmas presents and experiences to look forward to in 2026 to hundreds of local children living in challenging circumstances. With the generosity of businesses, organisations and the wider community, the charity ensures that children and their families affected by poverty, neglect or social isolation experience the joy and magic of the festive season.
Now, as preparations begin for the 2025 Giving Tree Appeal, Befriend a Child is calling on local businesses and organisations to join them as official partners. By becoming a Giving Tree Partner, businesses will not only help brighten Christmas for children across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, but also play a vital role in supporting their families who struggle round this time of year.
Louise Coleman, Senior Family Support Co-Ordinator at Befriend a Child, reflects on the significance of this campaign for the parents and families supported through Befriend a Child: “As much as Christmas is meant to be a time to celebrate and come together, for some families it can bring financial stress, added expense and overwhelming pressure. The Giving Tree was established to let local children enjoy Christmas with gifts and experiences, but what it also did was support their families too. Families share that they feel less financial pressure and comfort knowing their child will receive something to open on Christmas day. By gifting through the Giving Tree, you are not only funding a child’s Christmas experience, you are supporting their family too.”
Becoming a Giving Tree Partner couldn’t be simpler. Organisations can choose to display Befriend a Child’s specially designed tags on their Christmas tree, inviting staff, clients or visitors to pick a tag, purchase a gift and return it to the charity. For those preferring a digital option, businesses can make a donation to support experiences and outings for young people and their volunteers in 2026, or purchase a gift directly via the charity’s Amazon Wishlist.
Together, with the kindness of supporters and the sponsorship of Dales Marine Services, Befriend a Child can continue to bring light, joy and festive magic to children across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire this Christmas.
If you would like to take part in the Giving Tree Appeal, you can register your interest and receive more information here - https://www.befriendachild.org.uk/support-us/appeals/giving-tree-appeal-2025/