A NEWPORT bakery has backed the Newport-based Jesus Cares Christmas hamper campaign this week, donating 200 Welsh cakes to struggling families across South Wales.

Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, Jesus Cares started in 2009 as a result of community organisations contacting the Kings Church to ask for food for families they were working with, who had no money to feed their children.

The Argus has got on board with the project again this year to try and raise the profile of the work already carried out by the church, based at Lower Dock Street, Newport, and encourage as many readers and local businesses as possible to pitch in.

Now Brace’s, Wales’s largest independent bakery, have got on board with the appeal for the third year in a row, donating 200 Welsh cakes.

Scott Richardson, Brace’s Sales & Marketing Director, said “We are keen to give back to the local community and are pleased to support this excellent Christmas hamper scheme.

“Christmas is a magical time for all children no matter what their circumstances and these hampers will bring Christmas cheer and festive food onto their tables.”

The Kings Church has exceeded its target of delivering around 3,000 food hampers to agencies across South Wales such as Teen Challenge, Solas, Gwent Probation, and the Big Issue, who will disperse the hampers to clients in need; but is still looking for donations like Brace’s of Christmas treats in the last few weeks running up to Christmas.

Faye Edwards of Jesus Cares said: “Around 3,000 Christmas food hampers have been delivered to date, but we are still looking to carry on making up the Christmas hampers on the run up to Christmas and so we are still looking for any donations.

“It is absolutely fantastic that Brace’s has supported our campaign for the third year in a row.

“It is great that they are helping to make Christmas extra special for families this year.”

The Argus is asking generous readers to encourage people at their business, workplace, school, office or factory, to donate items such as; Christmas puddings, mince pies, chocolate, and biscuits, or any other food item that will keep throughout the festive period.

In return, we plan to feature those who support us and carry updates in the run up to Christmas.

If you would like to support our appeal, contact Sophie Brownson on 01633 777247 or email sophie.brownson@southwalesargus.co.uk.

Or contact Paul Carey on 01633 777 221 or paul.carey@southwalesargus.co.uk for more details.