Youth charity to flower beneath the Giving Tree

A Kent charity that aims to improve the lives of youngsters by finding them adult mentors, is to be the beneficiary of the traditional Giving Tree at Bluewater this Christmas.

Shoppers will be able to buy presents in the centre between 1 and 16 December and leave them at the Christmas Giving Tree for donation to vulnerable youngsters who need emotional and social support.

121 Youth Befriending is to embark on a major campaign launch in the New Year and the generosity of directors at Bluewater has come as a major and timely boost.

Suzy Messenger, Director of 121 Youth Befriending, said: “We ensure that every gift donated will be given to a child in need. In 2006 we are excited to be launching a new campaign that will help us to recruit 100 new mentors from across Kent.

The charity helps young people aged between six and sixteen who are experiencing crisis, social disadvantage, unhappiness or isolation. They are looking to increase their bank of “befrienders” who work on a voluntary basis for just a few hours a week to mentor individuals with friendship, care or just a good listening ear.