Baby gift appeal to help families at Christmas

A new appeal has been launched by a charity which provides essential items to new parents struggling with financial pressures.

Baby Basics Jersey is encouraging islanders to "gift it forward" and donate nappies, toiletries and toys, which will be distributed to families in need this festive season.

The charity, which has been running out of St Mark's Church since 2023, works in partnership with from health and social care professionals to reach families in need of extra support.

Vicki Clayton, from Baby Basics Jersey, said families had "just cried" when they received support.

Ms Clayton said: "What we've heard from them recently is that these packs really are a sense of relief.

"We've heard from families who've just cried because everything's there for them."

Islanders can donate items to the appeal by using the boxes located in Co-op Grand Marché, Bambola Toymaster and Mon Vee.

Ms Clayton added: "Toys are an essential and we often think, oh well, toys are luxury, but they're not.

"We've got lots of lovely pre-loved toys that we can clean up and make nice, but it's all about dignity for us.

"So having a new toy in a pack for a baby is really important... one that's really appropriate for their development."

Volunteer Sarah Vosse said the response had so far been promising.

"I think we're really fortunate in the island to have so many local retailers and just being able to go in and share about the work we're doing and who we can help," she said.

"We just really encourage people to just know that all of those items are going to go directly where that help is needed and give joy and a community hug for families in need this Christmas."

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