How Daffodils Dreams blossomed into a lifeline for Wigan’s underprivileged youth

In this interview, we will unravel how a small charity is turning dreams into reality for children living below the poverty line in Wigan.

So, pull up a chair, and let’s dive into their story of compassion, determination, and a generous sprinkle of community magic.

Daffodils Dreams

In an interview with the founder and CEO Maureen Holcroft and one of the directors Noreen Bond, we delve into the origins of Daffodils Dreams, its impactful initiatives, and the vision that propels this charitable force forward.

Daffodils Dreams, born out of a realisation five years ago, has evolved into a community hotspot for children and families living below the poverty line.

Founded by Maureen Holdcroft the organisation has become a testament to the transformative power of collective goodwill.

We sat down with the team to talk about the fantastic impact they are having on their local community in Wigan.

Roots of Compassion

Daffodils Dreams has blossomed into a community haven for children and families facing economic hardships in tough times.

Over the past five years, it has emerged as a powerful symbol of collective goodwill and transformative change.

Roots of Compassion

Daffodils Dreams’ journey began in 2018, sparked by a local newspaper article shedding light on child poverty in Wigan.

Maureen and her ex-colleague Noreen, had worked together at a local primary school, were deeply moved by the stark realities confronting the children in their care.

Maureen recalls: I founded Daffodils Dreams after undergoing eye surgery myself. It was during my recovery that I read an article in the local paper highlighting the problem and gave stats. I knew poverty existed but didn’t know just how bad things were until I saw the stats for each area.

“Noreen and I worked in a local primary school and saw first hand the effect it had on struggling families and their children.

“This personal experience ignited a passion within me to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Wigan, and Daffodils Dreams was born.”

She added, “We felt compelled to bridge the gap between privileged and underprivileged children.

“The struggle for basic necessities, like appropriate clothing, was hindering their participation in school activities.”

For example, on things like World Book Day and Owns Clothes day, they noticed that some kids were coming in in their school uniforms, because they could not afford outfits.

A Mission Unfurls

They embarked on a journey to bridge the gap between the haves and the have-nots.

Daffodils Dreams evolved beyond its initial mission, expanding its scope to provide support.

Maureen said: “The statistic that nearly half of Wigan’s children live below the poverty line is deeply distressing. It served as a wake-up call for me and reinforced the urgency of addressing this issue.

“Witnessing the daily struggles and challenges these children face, it became clear that we had to take action to provide them with the opportunities and support they deserve.”

To raise vital funds, the charity now boasts a pre-loved boutique where they sell wonderful items that have been donated, to help fund their cause and ‘Daffodils In The Community’ space project.

The boutique, born out of the desire to assist underprivileged children, has become a source of revenue to sustain the charity’s operations.

By offering a wide range of items, including dresses, suits, designer clothes and jewellery, all at affordable prices, the boutique serves both those who qualify for referrals and others seeking quality items without financial constraints.

Operating for over 18 months on Wallgate, the boutique not only provides a space for donations and referrals but also fosters a sense of community.

Customers have the opportunity to purchase high-quality items while contributing to the charity’s mission.

The boutique extends beyond a retail space, encompassing a community area that aims to bring people together.

Inspiring Stories

Asking Maureen about some uplifting stories of the work the charity was doing, she was quick to thank the kind people who had donated to the cause and those they were helping.

Maureen said: “I would love to say a big thank you for the items you provided for our young people in Y7 and Y9.

“The simple things such as the bed socks, shower gels and body sprays have really put a smile on their faces.

“They couldn’t stop saying thank you enough and the Easter Eggs were a lovely treat.

“They live in a single parent household with 3 children and with the cost-of-living crisis, money is really tight.

“When the 14- year-old gave me a list of all the things on her ‘wish list’, it broke my heart as some of things are what we would class as basics such as hair clips, bobbles, underwear, sanitary towels etc.

“She felt so cheeky asking but I knew I could rely on Daffodils Dreams to help her and her little brother. So, from the children, Father, and myself, thank you!!!

“You’re amazing.”

Empowering Through Events

Daffodils Dreams has become synonymous with impactful events that bring the community together, too.

From Christmas Eve boxes filled with essentials and sweet treats, fundraising balls, ladies’ evenings, care home personal shopping events. The charity actively engages with the people it serves.

By providing not only material support but also opportunities for enjoyment and enrichment, Daffodils Dreams enriches the lives of Wigan’s underprivileged children and families.

Daffodils Dreams extends its support beyond clothing, offering bundles of toiletries and organising annual appeals.

These appeals result in children receiving Easter eggs, Christmas gifts, and specially curated Christmas Eve boxes.

As the charity enters its fifth year of Christmas initiatives, Maureen reflects on the collaborative efforts that have made a significant impact.

Partnerships with entities like Wigan Council, Greenmount Project, and Wigan & Leigh college has amplified Daffodils Dreams’ reach, allowing them to bring even more joy to the children they serve.

Noreen emphasised: “Daffodils Dreams is more than material support.

“We organise events like Christmas Eve boxes, fundraising balls and ladies’ evenings and care home personal shopping events to bring joy and enrichment to the lives of Wigan’s underprivileged children and families.”

Noreen added: “Our Christmas initiatives, in collaboration with Wigan Council and local colleges, have made a significant impact. Last year, we joined forces with several other organisations to provide a generous package to a hundred families in need.

“The core mission of Daffodils Dreams is to empower disadvantaged children and families in the Wigan borough to break the cycle of poverty and improve their quality of life.

“Our vision is to create a community where every child has equal access to education, healthcare, and a nurturing environment. We aim to achieve this by offering a range of support services, opportunities, and resources to uplift the lives of those in need.”

Daffodils Dreams’ outreach extends far beyond material assistance, as evident in their collaboration with other entities to bring joy to families during the festive season.

In addition to the Christmas Eve boxes, Daffodils Dreams orchestrates outings for children, embracing the joys of normal childhood activities like bowling, ninja warrior and the cinema to watch the latest films.

These excursions enable the children to engage in conversations with their peers, contributing their own experiences to discussions about popular films and activities.

The charity’s collaborative efforts extend to partnerships with numerous primary and high schools.

Instead of imposing predetermined gifts, Daffodils Dreams seeks input from families to understand their preferences.

This personalised approach ensures that families receive vouchers for activities or events they genuinely desire, fostering a sense of agency and choice.

Raising Funds for a Great Cause

Reflecting on their journey, Maureen expresses excitement about the progress made despite initial challenges.

However, with growth comes financial responsibilities, and Daffodils Dreams actively fundraises through events, local giving, and innovative initiatives like sponsored window mirrors.

If you would like to get involved you can do so by clicking here

Despite financial constraints, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to the Wigan community.

You can donate to this great cause by clicking here

They accept donations of ladies, men’s and children’s clothing footwear, accessories, unopened gifts and toiletries.

The current location on Wallgate is strategically positioned to maximise visibility and community engagement.

You can find them 87-89 Wallgate, Wigan, WN3 4EA.

Looking Towards the Future

Looking towards the future, Maureen said: “Our future goals include expanding our reach to reach even more children in need, developing our new initiatives and  support programs, and building stronger community partnerships.

“We also aim to establish a sustainable model that ensures the long-term impact of our work in Wigan and Leigh, ultimately creating a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

Daffodils Dreams has adapted to challenges, showcasing resilience and creativity, such as the sponsored windows to local businesses.

The funds from these not only generate income but also contribute to the organisation’s visibility.

Daffodils Dreams takes pride in the overwhelming support from the people of Wigan.

Maureen actively shares updates on their efforts, such as clothing bundles, donations and events through social media platforms like Facebook

This transparency distinguishes them from larger organisations, ensuring that donations directly benefit the children of Wigan & Leigh instead of getting lost in bureaucratic channels.

As Daffodils Dreams enters its fifth year of spreading cheer, one can’t help but marvel at the contagious enthusiasm that radiates from this small organisation.

From prom dresses to Christmas eve boxes, from sponsored windows to ‘ Daffodils In The Community’ space, they’ve proven that every effort, no matter how small, can create a ripple of change.

If you want to find out more about this amazing charity, please click here