Barques help to deliver Christmas cheer to local children

PFK aims to help disadvantaged children across the West Midlands through a range of annual fundraising events. 

Held every December at The Jam House in St Paul’s Square, the Snowball is a chance to spread a little festive cheer by donating Christmas presents suitable for children of all ages.

This year, more than 1,500 gifts were collected on behalf of Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid (BSWA), who have provided invaluable services for over 40 years to women and children who are affected by domestic violence and abuse. The gifts are distributed by BSWA through its regional network of drop-in centres and refuge accommodation to ensure every child has a present to open on Christmas day.

Anna Fawcett, Income Generation and Corporate Relationships Manager at BSWA, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the support shown from the wonderful folk who attend the Snowball, and our friends at PFK who put on the most fabulous party each year. Despite the economic climate, attendees went above and beyond with lovingly wrapped gifts, and by the end of the night, our van was full to bursting with quality toys for children we support in the local area. On behalf of them, we want to say thank you so much!”

An independent report from the Birmingham Child Poverty Commission found that over 100,000 children in Birmingham live in poverty, which is the equivalent of 37% of all children in the city. The shocking statistic highlights how important PFK’s work to support disadvantaged children still is now as it was when PFK was formed.

Founded over 30 years ago, PFK was formed by industry professionals across Birmingham, including Barques’ managing director and chair of the charity, Jilly Cosgrove.

Jilly said: “We are thrilled to have donated so many Christmas gifts to Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid. Sometimes it’s not about the amount of money spent, it’s about bringing a smile to the faces of local children who are going through some really tough times."