Knits, gifts and Big Give magic: Our Christmas fundraising round‑up

Our supporters have once again shown extraordinary kindness over the festive season, helping us raise vital funds and create magical moments for the children and families we care for. Here’s a look back at some of the brilliant fundraising successes that lit up the end of the year.

The Knit Before Christmas raises over £6,000

A huge thank you to everyone who took part in The Knit Before Christmas.

We launched our first Knit ‘n’ Natter sessions, where our crafty supporters came together to create some of our knitted novelties that were sold as stocking fillers and tree decorations at Christmas fairs and markets across the season, all to raise vital funds for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

Whether you picked up your needles to knit something wonderful or purchased one of our much‑loved chocolate orange covers, thanks to your creativity and generosity, we received over 1,500 knitted creations and raised more than £6,000!

The Big Give Christmas Challenge smashes its target

This year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge was our most successful yet, raising an incredible £96,300 in just one week. All donations made online during the campaign were doubled, helping us surpass our £80,000 target.

Now in our fourth year of taking part, the Big Give has helped us raise a total of £397,000 to support our specialist bereavement services for children and families.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, shared the campaign, or helped make this achievement possible.

Christmas Crowdfunder brings festive magic to families

In November, we launched our Christmas Crowdfunder, Every Child Should Have the Chance to Meet Santa, to help us create joyful, accessible festive experiences for supported and bereaved families.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we raised £9,340 from 91 donations, making it possible for families to enjoy:

• Visits to Santa’s Grotto at Shooting Star House
• Ice skating at Hampton Court Palace
• A beautiful evening of Carols by Candlelight at Christopher’s
• Meeting Santa’s reindeer at a farm in Churt
• A sparkling winter wander and marshmallow toasting at Wisley Glow

Your kindness brought light, warmth and connection to families during a time that can be filled with worry or grief. You helped create treasured memories that will last far beyond the festive season.

Thank you to every single person who knitted, donated, shared, or supported our Christmas campaigns. Your generosity ensures we can continue being there for families when they need us most.