Mums and dads in Kings Heath have launched Operation Santa to help children in need across south Birmingham

It’s the second year that a dedicated group of volunteers from Kings Heath have clubbed together to help children in need across south Birmingham at Christmas.

The team of caring mum and dads who all live on the same street call their campaign Operation Santa and their goal is to provide personalised and thoughtful Christmas gifts and goodies to youngsters who are being helped by local charities and social services.

The not-for-proit Community Interest Company (CIC) is running fundraising events across Birmingham to achieve their fundraising total of £2,500.

There’s a great gig at The Night Owl on Saturday November 14 featuring The Needless and Midnight City Soul Band (more details below).

They’ve only got a few weeks to reach their target - so here’s a bit more info on how you can get behind them!

Who does Operation Santa support?

The neighbourhoods that Operation Santa focuses on includes - but is not limited to - Druids Heath, Billesley, Warstock, Allens Croft, Maypole.

It supports children aged 0-18 years-old, single parents and families in need.

These families and individuals are living in or receiving support from an organisation.

The vast majority live in rented accommodation, come from a low-income household and are in receipt of some form of government benefit.

The organisations that Operation Santa works with includes:

Spearhead Trust at Bells Farm  in the heart of Druids Heath; have a loyal team of staff and  volunteers who have worked tirelessly since 2001 to address complex social issues and helped to support and  improve the lives of all residents.

Malachi at The Ark in Billesley who support an incredible  number of families in the South Birmingham area and gives us the opportunity to reach more families.

The team hope to increase their reach year on year.

How does Operation Santa work?

The CIC works with established charitable organisation and community groups to understand the specific needs of those who need help.

Families are directly asked what they want to receive. In the case of single parent families, they are asked what their children would like to receive as presents.

Gifts from Santa are supplied costing up to £15 per individual.

Operation Santa Volunteer Elves go out and buy each present, wrap it up and deliver it to services who in turn give it to the families.

A spokesperson for the organisation said: “The main aim is to relieve pressure in the run up to Christmas and create happy childhood memories for the youngsters involved.”

What is Operation Santa doing to raise funds?

The team has organised a quiz which has already sold out. There’s a raffle in the pipeline.

There’s also the great fundraising event at The Night Owl on Sunday November 14.

The Needless will be playing their own music and some great covers for all to enjoy. Midnight City Soul Band will also be playing.

You can get your ticket here

To donate to the Operation Santa fundraise go to the Justgiving page here

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