Operation Santa to the rescue for Leeds' most vulnerable children

The charity initiative, now in its seventh year, will see donations of gifts, which are often the only presents received, for affected children.

It is targeted at vulnerable families who need support around their housing and who may have been exposed to abuse, modern day slavery, drug and alcohol problems and homelessness, and is run by housing support service Engage Leeds.

Liz Lee, Volunteer Coordinator at Engage Leeds, said: “Christmas is such a magical time of year but often people forget that not everyone is in a position to celebrate, whether financially, mentally or emotionally.

"Through Operation Santa our aim is to bring a glimpse of cheer to some of the most vulnerable children in Leeds and we genuinely think this is the best gift we can give.

“We still have children in need of gifts this year and would be incredibly grateful if businesses or individuals in the region would support our cause.”

It comes as the number of children unable to afford lunch has risen in more than half of England’s state schools as the cost-of-living crisis pushes more families into poverty, new research suggests.

Some 52 per cent of teachers responding to a survey commissioned by leading education charity the Sutton Trust said there was an increase in pupils going hungry in the autumn term.

The charity has criticised the Government for ignoring pleas to widen eligibility for free school meals in its November budget.

Responding to a survey of 6,200 state school teachers across England, 54 per cent also said more children were being dropped off without warm clothing.

Responding to a survey of 6,200 state school teachers across England, 54 per cent also said more children were being dropped off without warm clothing.