'We are really concerned that the need is higher than previous years'
A West Belfast community organisation, which runs an annual Christmas donation drive to help local families, has said the cost of living crisis means "the need is higher this year" compared to previous years.
It also offers a range of family support services and ‘in-house’ family learning programmes along with support services to ethnic minority children and families, outreach programmes into communities and schools plus therapeutic services and a sensory room for children. "This year we know that there are so many families struggling. We know that some families who had in the past been able to donate have now found themselves not in a position to do so," she said.
"Some local businesses/organisations and clubs such as The Bullring Convenience Store, Cumann Spóirt an Phobail, Corpus Christi Parish, Top of the Rock Healthy Living Centre as well as families and local people have all donated."
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