whg spreads festive cheer with the help of regional partners

This year’s programme of activity has seen see over 500 children, families and adults receive gifts, food and warm meals, helping to ease pressure at what can be a difficult time of year for many households.

Through its participation in Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas, whg delivered over 300 presents to children who may otherwise miss out. The campaign has been strengthened with the support of partner Ibstock, who have donated and wrapped an additional 50 children’s presents, continuing a collaboration that began in 2024.

Alongside children’s gifts, adult customers who may be experiencing loneliness or isolation received thoughtfully chosen presents such as scarves, toiletries and household essentials. The campaign was supported by colleague donations through whg’s annual Gifting with Purpose campaign, who also volunteered their time to wrap and deliver the gifts.

The festive programme has also focused on reducing loneliness, particularly among young people living independently for the first time.
For the second year running, The Keymaster in Willenhall generously donated six Christmas meals for young people who may otherwise have spent the day alone. Customers who benefited from the meals last year have since formed a social group and now meet regularly, creating new friendships and helping to reduce isolation beyond the festive season.

Family-focused support continued with a special Breakfast with Santa event for families who have been through whg’s ACEing Asthma programme.

Fay Shanahan, Corporate Director of Operations and IT at whg, said:
“Christmas can be a difficult time for many people, particularly those facing financial pressure or spending the season on their own. Thanks to the generosity of our colleagues and partners, we have been able to offer practical support and some welcome reassurance to customers who need it most.

“This reflects the commitments set out in Our 2030 Plan and our Social Justice Strategy, which guide how we work to reduce inequality through partnerships and community-driven initiatives.”

whg continues to work closely with local partners, charities and schools to ensure support reaches those who need it most, while building longer-term relationships that help customers access advice, services and opportunities beyond the festive period.
Support will continue into January, when financial and wellbeing pressures often remain high.