Motivate JA Brings Holiday Cheer To Hanbury Children’s Home

In December, youth-led Inititative Motivate JA brought joy, connection, and meaningful support to the Hanbury Children’s Home in Kendal, Manchester.

Organised by a five-member team of passionate volunteers, the initiative aimed to uplift the spirits of the 59 children, who range from infancy to 18 years old, residing at the home.

The holiday visit was more than just a charitable gesture—it was a day filled with warmth, creativity, and shared moments. The children were treated to a festive spread of snacks, including sandwiches, desserts, and juices, followed by the distribution of care packages and age-appropriate gifts.

One of the highlights of the day was the arts and crafts session, where the children had the opportunity to make their own Christmas cards for one another and design handmade paper ornaments. These activities sparked laughter and imagination and created a space for bonding between the volunteers and the children.

In a heartwarming moment, many of the children excitedly opened their gifts on the spot and invited the volunteers to play with them and their new toys. This spontaneous joy and connection added an unforgettable layer of meaning to the experience for everyone involved.

Beyond the festivities, the Motivate JA team took extra steps to address the specific needs of the home. After consulting with the staff, a portion of the donations was allocated to a special fund supporting the infant care unit—an essential arm of the facility that often takes in babies. This fund helped supply urgently needed items such as diapers, wipes, laundry detergents, and other infant care essentials.

The project was made possible by the generosity of donors who responded to a call for support. Their contributions empowered the volunteers to not only deliver a memorable experience for the children but also provide lasting assistance to one of the home’s most vulnerable groups.

This initiative exemplifies Motivate JA’s ongoing commitment to youth development and community impact. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when compassion, collaboration, and purpose come together.