HUNDREDS of teenagers are facing Christmas alone with no gifts or food.
But this bleak reality is not happening in a Third World country – it’s happening right here in Carmarthenshire.
Many of the young people are estranged from their families, some are homeless, some have children of their own they struggle to provide for.
Carmarthenshire’s Youth Service tries to help by running an annual Christmas Hamper project.
Last year, the scheme provided food and gifts for over 400 young people and family members, many of whom would otherwise have had no food or gifts on Christmas Day, or throughout the Christmas period.
Senior Youth Officer Chris Davis said: “Christmas is a difficult time for lots of young people and our Post 16 Youth Workers typically provide additional emotional support to young people who are finding it difficult to cope at this time of year.
“The food and presents were gratefully received by all of the young people. They helped on a practical level as well as enabling young people to feel that someone cares.”
Many sent messages of gratitude to the youth workers. One 16 year old, living in supported accommodation, said he had been unable to see his family over Christmas and that the presents donated by the project were the only ones he had received.
A text message from a teenager sent to a youth worker said: “Hey Steve, just thought I would text you to say mum is almost in tears because of the Christmas hamper and says thank you very much and we have never had our cupboards so full so thank you x.”
The youth service has collection boxes at all major council buildings and is appealing for donations of food, gifts or money to purchase food and items for the hampers.
They are also running an auction and raffle, and would appreciate any donations for prizes or auction items.
Last year, staff from all departments of Carmarthenshire County Council helped to raise almost £3,000 for the project, and this year they would like to raise even more as the level of need has increased.
Youth service staff buy the goods for the hampers out of the money raised, then pack, prepare and distribute them to young people and families in need throughout Carmarthenshire.
Anyone who can help is asked to email Chris Davis at cjdavis@sirgar.gov.uk, or call 01267 224960.
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