Julie, DSL, Evergreen Primary school

Good morning

We wanted to share how the Christmas hampers initiative has positively impacted our vulnerable families this year. Many families expressed that the hampers provided not only essential food items but also brought a sense of relief and joy during what can be a very challenging time.

For some, the support helped ease financial pressures and ensured children could enjoy festive treats and presents.  Beyond the practical help, families felt cared for and connected to the school community, which is invaluable for their wellbeing.

Our families are always appreciative of any help given to them by the school and outside agencies, especially with the current high rise in cost of living.

Our school is in one of the most deprived areas of Bristol and experiences problems associated with living in disadvantaged areas which can have long term negative influences on children’s development and mental health of both children and parents.  

As a school, we regularly support our community with basic needs (food parcels, clothing, housing, grant funding for household items etc.,).   Many of our parents/families are in receipt of Housing or Universal Credit benefits to support their households.  Many of our families are living in temporary accommodation provided by the local authority (with a minority through private renting).  Your support with the hampers and presents at Christmas was invaluable to them.  

One parent commented, upon return to school in January 2026, that the hamper was exceptionally good and she was impressed with all the presents given to herself and the children, including the older members of her family.

Thank you so much for your support, encompassing our Heart Values, which underpin the work we do here at Evergreen and within our Cabot Learning Federation.