Council seeks donations to bring Christmas 'hope'

Maidstone Mayor Martin Round said Christmas was a season of struggle and stress for some

A council is asking people to help "deliver hope and happiness" this Christmas by donating to its charitable hub.

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) and The Mall are collecting items for local charities to distribute to those who are struggling and otherwise could not celebrate the festive season.

The Christmas Donations Hub, located in The Mall in Maidstone, is seeking festive gifts, decorations, toys and food items.

Donations have been significantly down compared to previous years, organisers said.

Maidstone Mayor Martin Round said Christmas was a "joyful time for many".

"But it's important to remember that it can also be a season of struggle and stress, whether due to financial hardship or the deep loneliness and depression some people face," he added.

"By donating to the hub, you're sharing kindness. That generosity reflects the caring, compassionate spirit of the people of Maidstone."

The hub is seeking festive gifts, decorations, toys and food items

It is the third year the donation hub has been open.

Wishing Hearts, one of the local charities working with the hub, said it would distribute donations to elderly people living in the community who "might need some extra Christmas cheer".

"Last year made such an enormous difference," a spokesperson said.

"We are looking forward to seeing some smiley faces this Christmas."

The hub is open until 6 December.