For most children, discovering what Father Christmas put under the Christmas tree is the pinnacle of the holiday but some in Hackney are not so lucky.
The Metropolitan Police has launched its largest ever charity drive to ensure disadvantaged children receive Christmas presents this year.
The Christmas Tree Project, now in its second year, launched last Wednesday, and Hackney has fully embraced the seasonal cheer.
Events across the borough have taken place all week with businesses and residents coming together to donate presents for disadvantaged children.
Angela Jameson a beautician from Homerton, praised the Met Police for the project.
“I can’t think of a better way to spend my money than donate a Christmas gift to a local child who may not receive one otherwise,” she said.
This is such a great cause, get on board #metxmastree and give a gift to someone who needs some love at Christmas https://t.co/8pb6CiFNET
— Lauren Gregory (@LaurenGregory1) November 18, 2015
Hackney has the third highest child deprivation rate in London, according to official statistics from Hackney Council and Sgt Emily Burbeck, who works in Hoxton West, said she knew of “over 100 children” in her area who will benefit from the scheme.
Last year’s success resulted in 6,840 Christmas gifts being given to children from ages one to 17 across London and this year the police are hoping to top it.
Sgt Burbeck added: “It’s a good way for the community to get together and cheer up a child who they will never meet, but know that they will have brought a smile to their face.”
