Befriend a Child’s annual Giving Tree Appeal is once again spreading festive joy across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, ensuring every child supported by the charity has a gift to open on Christmas morning.
However, did you know the appeal goes far beyond the magic of unwrapping a present?
In addition to providing gifts, the Giving Tree Appeal also funds life-changing experiences that help children and young people build confidence, learn new skills, and create happy memories that last well beyond the festive season.
Through donations, Befriend a Child will be able to offer children and their positive adult role models the chance to share new adventures together in 2026, experiences that help foster connection, self-belief, and joy.
- £10 could pay for a bike riding session, helping a child build balance, independence and a lifelong sense of adventure.
- £20 could fund a trip to the theatre, sparking imagination, laughter and wonder as stories come to life.
- £30 could provide a day out at a local farm, encouraging curiosity, connection with nature and hands-on learning.
For many of the children supported by Befriend a Child, such moments offer the chance to experience something new, to discover hidden talents, and to make cherished memories in a supportive and caring environment.
Katie Kyle, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at Befriend a Child said: “Every pound donated to our Giving Tree Appeal helps us give children the chance to experience moments of happiness, adventure and discovery. For many of the children we support, opportunities like riding a bike for the first time, visiting the theatre, or spending a day exploring the countryside are experiences they may never have had before. These moments might seem small, but they’re incredibly powerful, helping children to believe in themselves, to laugh, to feel valued, and to create unforgettable memories”
The Giving Tree Appeal allows Befriend a Child to create those special memories that can last a lifetime and build brighter futures for the young people they work with. As the appeal in underway, the charity is calling on the local community to support the Giving Tree Appeal and help continue providing these vital opportunities for children and young people across the region. Donations will help ensure that every child has the chance to feel the warmth of kindness and the joy of shared experiences this Christmas and beyond.
Befriend a Child expresses a huge thank you to Dales Marine Service for being 2025 sponsor of this year’s appeal. Because of their support, the charity is able to reach even more individuals, spreading more festive cheer throughout the community and encouraging more individuals to help change the lives of children and young people this Christmas.
Donations towards an experience for a young person and their volunteer can be made at: https://www.befriendachild.org.uk/support-us/appeals/giving-tree-appeal-2025/