Santa’s helpers at local law firm blake morgan are calling again this year on oxford businesses to donate gifts
Last year the initiative raised almost 900 gifts to children nominated by Oxfordshire Social Services and West Berkshire Social Services as well as Children Heard and Seen, an Oxford charity that helps children who have a parent in prison.
Those taking part are given gift tags which show the first names, ages and gift ideas of children who would benefit from a gift.
The volunteers at participating businesses choose the tag of a child they wish to buy for and then spend their own money on a suitable present before wrapping it and attaching the tag. Presents chosen by the children last year included anything from toy cars to toiletries to books.
The firm was overwhelmed by the generosity of local businesses including Cala Homes who donated £1000 towards the cause. They are calling for help to beat the number of presents donated last year and spread Christmas cheer to even more children and young people who might not otherwise receive a gift.
All the presents are collected by 5 December at Blake Morgan’s offices at Seacourt Tower, in West Way, so they can be passed on to social services in time for Christmas.
William Downing, regional senior partner for Blake Morgan in Oxford, said: “Christmas should be a special time for all children but sadly there are many who find this time of year extremely challenging. A small gift can make a big difference and make them feel important and cared for, which is why we are urging as many local businesses to get involved as we can.
“I would like to thank not only the businesses who donated but also our own staff who have been helped to make our Secret Santa initiative a success. We are aiming to raise presents for over 900 children this year”
A reception will be held at Seacourt Tower for participating businesses before the presents are loaded into cars and taken away by social services and the charity in time for Christmas Day.
Businesses interested in taking part are invited to contact Eleanor Tanner at eleanor.tanner@blakemorgan.co.uk or call 01865 254 274.
More in Charities
Raymond Blanc gives his support for Raise’24
We are delighted to share a personal video from the wonderful Raymond Blanc of Belmond Le Manoir in which he gives his full support for what he describes as “an incredible, beautiful idea.”
Raise’24: The one Christmas Party you won’t want to miss
Take a moment to cast your mind back to last December (perhaps not easy in these summer months).
PREMIER FOOTBALL STARS SUPPORT OXBRIDGE FOUNDATION
Football stars Andriy Shevchenko and Oleksandr Zinchenko have backed the launch of a charity (Oxbridge Foundation) which will fund scholarships for Ukrainian students affected by the war.
From this author
80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS FOR OXFORD PARTNER AFTER 46 YEARS AT LAW...
This month an institution in the Oxford legal sector, John Deech, has celebrated his 80th birthday, which comes as he remains an active full-time partner at law firm Blake Morgan. John’s colleagues threw him a surprise birthday party – reflecting on the almost 50 years he has worked at the firm and marking this milestone.
BLAKE MORGAN’S THAMES VALLEY TEAMS CELEBRATE TOP RANKINGS IN CHAMBERS &...
Thames Valley lawyers from Blake Morgan are celebrating success in the 2023 edition of the prestigious Chambers & Partners Guide, which recognises and recommends the best-performing lawyers and legal firms across the UK. 10 of the firm’s teams based in the Thames Valley were selected for praise in the Guide, along with 20 individual lawyers – showcasing the firm’s wide range of specialisms and excellent client service.
SUCCESS FOR BLAKE MORGAN’S THAMES VALLEY TEAM IN LATEST LEGAL 500...
The prestigious Legal 500 UK Guide for 2023 has recognised Blake Morgan’s teams and leading individuals in the Thames Valley and beyond. The highly-regarded directory recognises the quality of law firms and their lawyers across the UK, based on an extensive review process and feedback from clients and peers in the industry.