Bracknell Business Improvement District (BID) is turning the spirit of giving into a community-wide celebration this festive season with a range of charitable initiatives aimed at those in need.

As part of their efforts, the BID has teamed up with Bracknell-based Sebastian’s Action Trust on a ‘Giving Tree’ where businesses have been encouraged to ditch Secret Santa and instead buy toys or experiences for the charity’s supported children and families.

In addition, Bracknell BID has also made generous donations to four other local charities - Shopmobility UK, Bracknell Food Bank, Absolutely Together and DEBRA UK - who each received £500.

Sean Griffin, Bracknell BID Manager, said: " Our commitment to charitable giving has always been strong, and this year we are thrilled to extend our support to even more local charities that do such valuable work. Together with the businesses on the Southern and Western Business Areas, we have been able to donate more than 200 gifts and £2,000 to help make a meaningful difference to those in need. The overwhelming response from businesses underscores the community's devotion to spreading holiday happiness, and really does amplify the true impact of this collective effort.”

Becky Pearce, Shopmobility UK said: "We are overjoyed to have been chosen by Bracknell BID. The funds will greatly contribute to the servicing of our equipment, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges continue to have access to the support they need. It's heartening to see our local community come together to make a positive impact, especially during the festive season. Thank you to Bracknell BID for recognising the importance of supporting organisations like ours."

Claire Mather, Bracknell Foodbank Manager said: “A huge thank you to Bracknell BID for their extremely kind donation. The cost-of-living crisis is placing more demand on families, and our service is at an all-time high – this is sadly only expected to increase in the lead up to Christmas and in the colder winter months ahead. Monetary donations allow us to continue to cover our general running costs such as staffing and our foodbank van, and provide us with back up funds for if and when we need to purchase food. Bracknell Foodbank is a real community project with the majority of donations coming from local people and we’re continuously blown away by the generosity of individuals and businesses in the area.”

David Brind, Community Development Director, Absolutely Leisure said: “With the generous donation from Bracknell BID, we have been able to provide some additional accessible karting sessions over the Christmas holiday period for families in Bracknell. These sessions give children with additional needs the unique opportunity to experience the thrill of karting, putting smiles back on their faces and creating memories that will last a lifetime.”

Ann Avarne, Corporate Partnerships Manager, DEBRA said: “Bracknell BID’s commitment to support and build a stronger community is truly inspiring. On behalf of DEBRA UK, we’d like to thank them for their generous donation which will enable us to provide much needed practical and emotional support to people living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). The donation will really make a difference to people living with EB and ensure that we can be there for people throughout their entire life.”

For further information about the Bracknell BID go to www.bracknellbid.co.uk