Working in partnership with colleagues and contractors, including Union Technical and Bell Group, the initiative ensures that every child living in a Riverside Scotland home has something special to unwrap on Christmas morning.

This year, Tenant Partners identified 124 children in need across Riverside Scotland’s 2,498 homes, double the number supported last year, highlighting the growing financial pressures faced by families.

Pamela Forrest, head of housing & communities, said: “Our campaign is designed to ensure every child in our community experiences the joy of receiving a gift at Christmas. By engaging colleagues, contractors, and securing Cash for Kids support, we aim to ease the burden on families and make the festive season brighter for those most in need.

“Our Housing First for Families team, alongside our tenant partners, share close and caring relationships with the families we support, and their eagerness to help shines through every year. One of the most heartwarming traditions is our Giving Tree, where colleagues select a tag and buy a gift. In these challenging times, the generosity of our staff has been truly overwhelming.

“We know it can be difficult to embrace the Christmas spirit when essentials are a struggle, let alone presents and toys. Our hope is that this campaign has lifted some of that weight and brought genuine joy to our families. We are deeply grateful for the kindness and generosity shown by our contractors and staff.”

One Ayrshire mum, who received gifts for her child, shared: “I can’t thank Riverside Scotland enough! You don’t know how much this means to me and my family. I’ve been worrying about how I’ll afford everything and just want the kids to be happy and not feel like they’re missing out.

“It’s a lot of pressure. This support has allowed me to look forward to Christmas Day, knowing the kids will be over the moon with their gifts. I was also grateful for the chance to wrap the presents myself. Thank you to everyone who supported the appeal - you’ve allowed me to enjoy Christmas with my family, and I can’t wait to see my kids’ faces on Christmas morning.”