Christine and Terry, tell us about how you became involved with the work of Wood Street?

When I was a young mum over 40 years ago the Filkin family at our church organised Christmas collections for Wood Street Mission so all our sons’ good outgrown toys went there.  Jean (now in her 80s) remembered that her mum had been taken on a day trip by Wood Street Mission so they wanted to support it.  Over the years I became more involved and we visited to see for ourselves what wonderful work was done – which further encouraged collections.

How do you support us?

We support the special appeals and throughout the year have donations which we save and have collected when our garage gets too cluttered!

You’ve been fantastic at getting the local community involved – can you tell us a bit more about that?

Our church in Marple Bridge, plus Marple and New Mills churches have been doing a Toy Service for years each Christmas. We had the Rainbows children’s group at our church and one of our Elders ran it. Every Christmas, rehearsals started in September and they had their first performance at our church as part of the Toy Service and they too were encouraged to donate to Wood Street. Lately, as a member of Marple Thrift group, if there are any things suitable which nobody has wanted, I have asked if I could have them for Wood Street. Once young mums find out about it, they generally give even more to the collections.

How does it feel to be supporting a small, independent, local charity?

Having visited Wood Street, heard the history and knowing how important their work is, has made us feel more passionate about supporting it. We know the need in these areas is sadly growing and we feel we are making a difference, no matter how small, to make life a bit better for these children.

What part of supporting us is the most fun/rewarding?

I think for me the most rewarding part is buying Christmas gifts and books.  I have always loved Christmas because my mum always made it special – and as the eldest of ten children from a North East mining village (where the film Billy Elliott was filmed) it can’t have been easy for her. I like to think that I am doing for other children what our mum did for us – bringing magic and love into their lives.

You’ve supported a few different projects, but Family Basics most of all. Why this project?

As an English teacher I am always buying books and love children’s books, especially now I get to read them to our grandchildren.  We support the Family Basics project the most because this is the reality of everyday life for parents and carers – just making sure the children have suitable clothing and baby equipment as they grow and seasons change.

What would you say to someone thinking of supporting Wood Street Mission?

I would encourage everyone to get involved. You see the need, it’s just a matter of letting others know about this need and about the work of Wood Street Mission, then acting as a co-ordinator. Over the years I have got to know the folk I get to ring for collections – and they make it easy.  They and the wonderful drivers who come to pick up the donations are always friendly and appreciative of what has been donated.