Christmas for Grenfell: Fundraiser to buy presents for children affected by fire
Volunteers want to raise enough money to buy a special present for the hundreds of children affected by June's devastating fire.
Thursday 30 November 2017 05:17, UK
A group of volunteers are hoping to bring Christmas to the traumatised children of Grenfell in a fundraising campaign.
Christmas for Grenfell aims to raise enough money to buy a special present for the hundreds of children affected by the Grenfell Tower fire.
The team behind the fundraiser includes Stevan Racz who lost his uncle, Denis Murphy, in the fire.
He said: "When you think about what those kids have been through and the fact they have to face the sight of that building every day, reminding them of what happened, then you can't help but want to change that a little.
"If our event happens to raise a smile and make them forget their worries, ones they shouldn't even have to deal with, then it will all be worth it."
The has a target of £25,000 and says that it wants to support all children affected by the tragedy.
The page adds: "The Grenfell Tower looms over their world - a constant reminder of the familiar faces that are gone forever, the empty desks in their classrooms, the children missing from football or dance class, from the park or from playgroup.
"At Christmas time, when friends and families congregate, these children will feel their loss more keenly than ever - and many of their parents are dreading what should be their children's happiest time of year.
"We can't fix all their problems, but what we can and will do is to show these hundreds of children that they are not forgotten - that we care."
:: 'Not enough support' for Grenfell children
Swarzy Macaly was one of the first volunteers to offer help to survivors after the fire and has been working with affected families ever since.
She had the original idea for the project and joined forces with Mr Racz and other experienced volunteers.
She said: "In September this year, I began volunteering for WeCanCry - a community group dedicated to supporting local mums who lived in and around Grenfell Tower.
"By November, myself and another volunteer began organising a Christmas dinner for the mums, and also started a plan to give their children a present each in the hope that this would take out some of the stress during this difficult period.
"I think it goes without saying that this will be a really sad and sensitive time of year for many, and so perhaps the strength and compassion of our community is one of the best gifts of all this Christmas."
The group also has a and are asking for donations, gifts and wrapping paper to help the project.