Christmas came twice in Beacon Hill, as St Alban’s Church Hindhead hosted its free Christmas gift bank and community café. More than 200 children from the area received gifts, thanks to donations from church members, parents, and the local school.

Moved by rising living costs, the church’s children’s team launched the initiative three years ago to support struggling families. Volunteers sorted and bagged donated good-as-new items, while cash contributions funded additional gifts and advent calendars.

Working with Beacon Hill Community Primary School, the church distributed hundreds of gifts on Black Friday, rebranding it as “Blessings Friday.” Families received tokens allowing them to choose a main gift, a book, a soft toy, stocking fillers, and an adult gift.

One local father, a multi-lingual carer, described the event as “a blessing.”

A mother said: “Knowing my children will have gifts lifts a weight off my mind. Christmas is a difficult time for me and despite working as a nurse I struggle to make ends meet. St Alban's Church family gives love, support, and hope to my family all year. Sharing hot food and drinks shows my children love and kindness that is so needed in this world and inspires them for the future.”

The all-day community café provided a festive space for parents to relax while volunteers served more than 100 toasted sandwiches, waffles, mince pies, rocky road cakes, and drinks. Cookies were generously donated by the Cookie Bar in Hindhead.

Gift bank team leader Liz Holbird said: “Jesus’ words, ‘Freely you have received, freely give,’ inspire us. We wanted to create a warm, bazaar-like atmosphere where people didn’t need to spend money.”

With gifts and kindness in abundance, St Alban’s Church ensured Christmas 2024 would be brighter for many families in need.