How Stockport shoppers raised £85,000 for needy children this Christmas

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Stockport shoppers and businesses have gone above and beyond this Christmas, contributing to the remarkable success of Merseyway’s annual Giving Tree initiative.

Merseyway’s Annual Giving Tree Initiative

The campaign, organised by the centre management team at Merseyway Shopping Centre, surpassed expectations by providing a staggering £85,000 worth of gifts to less fortunate children across the borough.

Running from November 14th to December 17th, the Giving Tree saw unprecedented levels of engagement, with thousands of local individuals, businesses, and community groups participating.

The concept involved selecting a red tag from a prominently displayed white Christmas tree inside the shopping centre.

Each tag specified the age, gender, and desired gift for a local child.

Participants then purchased bespoke gifts and dropped them off at the dedicated collection point outside Waterstones.

10,000 Incredible Gifts!

The Merseyway team, driven by the outpouring of generosity, coordinated the delivery of over 10,000 gifts, including toys, books, games, pyjamas, slippers, and more, to Stockport schools and charities.

• This year’s campaign witnessed increased business involvement, further amplifying its impact.
• Seven Movement Gym spearheaded fundraising initiatives, generating an impressive £5,225 in gifts.
• British Gas demonstrated its support by hosting a Giving Tree in its head office, and Stockport County donated over 100 gifts.
• Hurst Accountants opted to contribute to the initiative instead of traditional Secret Santa gifts.
• At the same time, Gorvins Solicitors made significant donations, all aiming to assist individuals and families in need across Stockport.

Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager, expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s truly overwhelming to see the level of participation and generosity for this year’s Giving Tree.

“Local businesses have demonstrated exceptional dedication, particularly Seven Movement Gym, whose fundraising efforts exceeded £5,000.

“Our administrator, Vicky Leicester, deserves special recognition for her unwavering commitment to this campaign.

“With the support of volunteers, Stockport Council, and the CBRE team, along with kindhearted shoppers and local businesses, we’ve fulfilled more Christmas wishes than ever.”

Amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the Giving Tree initiative has united the Stockport community to support those facing hardships during the festive period.

This year, the Giving Tree extended its reach to 11 schools across Stockport, local homeless shelters, youth groups, and charities such as Children of Women in Refuge, Chelwood Foodbank Plus, and Emmes Kitchen.