FOR many the realisation that Christmas is just six weeks away is the trigger to write out present-wish lists and begin those frantic shopping trips. But for so many parents it is a trigger to begin the annual excuses to their children as to why Fath

FOR many the realisation that Christmas is just six weeks away is the trigger to write out present-wish lists and begin those frantic shopping trips.

But for so many parents it is a trigger to begin the annual excuses to their children as to why Father Christmas won't be calling this year.

The unemployment consequences of the recession have ensured that the need this year is greater than ever.

Whatever the reasons why a family is in need, their children are all experiencing the draining effects of living in poverty day after day - those on benefits receive no bonuses at Christmas they are expected to stretch even thinner, inadequate amounts of support to give their children the treats that so many of us take for granted.

Please help make a difference this year. Give a gift and give a child a Christmas to remember and the opportunity for at least one day to feel special like everyone else on Christmas Day.

"I was on the edge, losing my grip. I had their bags packed. I was going to leave them at Social Services (her four children). But then a bag arrived full of toys and l got my grip back and my family stayed together"...that is an extract from a thank you letter from a grateful parent benefiting from a previous appeal.

Please help make that difference this year! - KEVIN JENKINS, Senior Advisor and Co- Founder, Community Links.