Glasgow - Children from disadvantaged backgrounds, who might otherwise go without gifts this Christmas, will wake up to a little bit of festive cheer this December 25th, thanks to a £5,000 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust to Sunshine Wishes Children’s Charity’s 2024 Christmas Appeal.

Based in Bishopbriggs, Sunshine Wishes Children’s Charity works with sick, terminally ill, and disadvantaged children and families across Scotland, actively supporting families in financial hardship by providing essential items like food and clothing.

Their network includes eight food banks serving 21 organisations, including 15 nurseries, that discreetly distribute food and other essentials to families in need. Over the past year alone, the charity has supported more than 3,500 families and over 6,000 children, with a focus on communities where economic challenges are prevalent.

The £5,000 donation from the Trust will enable Sunshine Wishes to supply over 200 Christmas gifts, for children whose families struggle with the basic costs of daily life, such as food and heating. By providing gifts and food vouchers, the charity hopes to relieve some of the financial pressure parents feel during the Christmas period, helping families focus on the joy of the season rather than making difficult choices between bills and holiday traditions.

Additionally, Sunshine Wishes will continue to connect families to further support services for additional needs throughout the year.

Linda Ford, General Manager at Sunshine Wishes, expressed her gratitude:

“The generous award of £5,000 from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will significantly impact the Christmas appeal of Sunshine Wishes Children's Charity. On behalf of the charity and, more importantly, the children and their families who would otherwise go without, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for helping us make a positive difference. Your support inspires our ongoing commitment to assisting those less fortunate.”

Gerry Facenna, owner of Allied Vehicles Group and Chairman of the Trust, added:

“As a family business we believe that nothing is more important than family, especially at this time of year. We are delighted to support Sunshine Wishes’ Christmas Appeal to lift a small amount of financial pressure from families this Christmas.”

The Trust’s contribution will help Sunshine Wishes Children’s Charity to make this Christmas a memorable, joyful time for the families they support, giving children across Scotland a reason to smile on Christmas morning.