So many hard working parents/carers are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living in the UK is hitting hard resulting in families unable to pay bills and unable to provide enough food for themselves and their children.

Christmas is hard at the best of times. Expectations are high, disappointment is real and the feelings of failure for those who can't provide for their children are overwhelming. Children rely on school meals to be fed or find excuses to explain to peers why they're not having lunch. Parents go without food so that their children can eat. Homes are cold because heating is too expensive.

The John Roan Foundation already supports eligible families with free school meals and uniform grants. Unfortunately, there are working parents (some in dual working families) who are not eligible for this help because their salary does not meet the threshold but it also doesn't cover the cost of their bills and food. And the threshold is low.

The John Roan School Association (JRSA) exists to support and enrich the lives of the families at the school. They provide second hand uniforms and contribute to some school trips. As part of their remit, a new Hardship Fund is to be ring-fenced to support children at the school who need it, discreetly and sensitively.

This Christmas we want to raise enough funds to provide supermarket vouchers for families to purchase the essentials and some treats for their children. The school holidays are long for families in need.

We know times are hard for most so please don't feel that you have to donate large amounts but if you do have a few pounds spare to help then we are so grateful for your generosity.

Help us share the love this Christmas and let struggling families know that the community is there for them.

Thank you for your support.