THE SEASON of giving is in full swing across Solihull.
Residents, businesses big and small and Council staff have come together to ensure that the stockings of every child the council supports will be much fuller this Christmas.
Hundreds of presents have been donated.
Some through a community parenting scheme which paired specific requests from social workers on behalf of children they work with to members of staff at large local employers.
There were hundreds more generously handed in at the Council’s Civic Suite by council employees, individuals and community groups who wanted to play their part and donate something special to a child at this time of year.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Annette Mackenzie, said: “I’ve been really taken aback by the scale of this, I knew the people of Solihull were generous and kind-hearted but honestly, I couldn’t have expected this reaction.
“Our Corporate Parenting Board deserve credit for pushing this forward. I want to personally thank everyone who has given a present to make sure the children who need them most will have a happy Christmas this year.
“So many people have got involved, giving what they can to provide that magic moment on Christmas morning, it makes me so proud as Mayor, this is the Solihull I know and love.”
Councillor Karen Grinsell, leader of Solihull Council, said: “Thank you to the staff who worked hard to put this scheme in place, it wasn’t an easy undertaking but they’ve pulled it off spectacularly.
“The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Solihull.
“I’m delighted that there are so many people willing to help out at this special time of year and delighted that we’re able to provide that little bit extra for the children and families we support thanks to their generosity.”
