Whilst scrolling through social media and noticing the difficulties small businesses have faced during the Coronavirus pandemic, born and bred Wiganer, Darren Maxfield, wanted to do his part and spread some festive cheer.
33 year-old, Darren, who lives with his partner and daughter in Billinge, noticed that a few of his local businesses were struggling due to the current pandemic.
“I have seen how they are trying to adapt and survive.” said Darren.
He then realised how he wanted to help out and do his part to make others happy, especially after the year we have had.
“I was brainstorming ideas and thought Christmas is coming up, I could spend some money on local businesses by buying products to make up a Christmas Eve box for my local hospital” mentioned Darren.
The red and white cardboard boxes are made up of a variety of products including; Lynx gift sets, Christmas Santa hats, selection boxes, cosmetic gift sets and a selection of games.
Darren’s company, Maxi Roofing LTD, supported financially allowing Darren to buy the products to put inside the boxes. Another local company, Luisco Chocolate LTD also donated vouchers.
Darren, Cat and Leanne with boxes
20 boxes have been donated to Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s Rainbow Ward.
“I’ve tried to make a variety of boxes. 10 are for girls and the other 10 boxes are for boys of all ages” explained Darren.
This isn’t the first time that Darren has made up Christmas Eve boxes; he does this every year for his young daughter, Isla.
Darren added “Christmas is a special time, extended family and friends may not be able to visit children who are staying over in hospital, so a little something, like this Christmas Eve box, will bring some cheer to the children.”
The generous donation was kindly given to two of our Play Specialist on the ward, socially distanced, on the Wigan Royal Albert Edward Infirmary Site.
“I know that the children are going to love these boxes, they are filled with so many amazing things. It will definitely bring a smile to their faces.” said Catherine Scott, Play Specialist on Rainbow Ward.