Norwich-based charity Break launches its first ever range of Christmas jumpers today, to help make dreams come true for young people in care. And, as CEO Rachel Cowdry explains, they’ve been created by young care leavers themselves
A Christmas Dream Appeal by local charity Break, which supports young people living in care, on the edge of care and leaving care, includes a brand-new range of Christmas jumpers created by young care leavers, with all profits going the charity’s Make a Dream fund, which makes dreams come true for the children in their care. Starting from November 1, the appeal aims to raise over £15,000 and alongside donations, the charity is also launching for the first time their own range of Christmas jumpers.
Designed straight from the heart by Break’s young people, who understand more than anyone the wide spectrum of emotions over the festive period with the jumpers reflecting every sentiment, from the “Bah Humbug” spirit to the “tinsel everywhere” vibes!
‘Christmas can be a magical time, but for those growing up in care, it can be a particularly challenging time,’ explains Break CEO Rachel Cowdry. ‘We pride ourselves on all our work being co-produced with the young people we support and our Christmas jumpers show just how conflicting the festive season can be for those growing up in care. That’s why our Christmas Appeal is so vital. Just as we would our own children, we want them to have the same opportunities and experiences and our Make a Dream fund helps us to do this. It’s not just about getting a gift at Christmas; these dreams will have a real lasting impact.’
Dreams range from a day out at a theme park or going to see their favourite band for the first time, to getting a new bike or taking driving lessons. But although these may seem like small asks, for those asking for them these opportunities can be life changing and empowering, helping them to realise that nothing is out of their reach.
Like Richie, 21, a young care leaver who asked for new clothes as his budget as a care leaver just couldn’t stretch to getting him the essentials like new shoes or even a coat. ‘My money has to go on things like food and bills and there’s not much left over at the end of the month. Thanks to Break’s Make a Dream fund, I felt so lucky that I could get the things I needed. It was the first time I’ve ever been able to get a proper winter coat. Having nice clothes really helps you to feel better in yourself.’
Other dream requests include from Amber, 14 who loves vintage clothes and wants to go to London and explore the markets, to Luke, 18 who has a learning disability which means it’s difficult to quality spend time with his family and wants to go the circus with his mum and carer; and Tomasz, 21 who entered care as a child and has always dreamt of going back to Germany: ‘I lived there for nearly four years but my circumstances meant I had to come back home. I would like to visit it again now I’m in a better place in my life.’
For those who would like to donate to the appeal or purchase a Christmas jumper visit Christmas appeal 2023. Readers can get 5% off if they buy two or more jumpers with code GIFTADREAM. Offer closes 11:59pm on the November 10. See break-charity.org for full terms and conditions. Also, there will be a Break Christmas Carol Concert, at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Norwich, on December 7.
Featured image of the new Break Christmas jumpers – picture credit: Just Big Smiles
Leave a Reply