Stratford Circus Arts Centre Launches Full Hearts Full Tummies Campaign for Christmas

The charity Stratford Circus Arts Centre is raising £12,000 to make Christmas a magical one for families in Newham who otherwise simply wouldn't be able to afford a seasonal treat. Last year hundreds of disadvantaged children and their parents enjoyed a hot meal and a ticket to a family show for just £1; now the venue is relaunching Full Hearts Full Tummies for Christmas 2016 to build on last year's successful pilot.

Stratford Circus Arts Centre will be collaborating with children's centres, food banks and local charities to ensure they reach those most in need. Families will share a festive lunch before watching a special performance of arctic adventure Breaking the Ice, Stratford Circus Arts Centre's Christmas show. For many children taking part it will be their first experience of live performance, ensuring creative inspiration for their learning development as well as some magic Christmas memories.

Speaking about Full Hearts Full Tummies, Stratford Circus Arts Centre's Director Monique Deletant Bell said "We believe every child in Newham deserves a magical experience at Christmas. Our community's need is always at the core of what Stratford Circus Arts Centre does. The overwhelming response from our pilot campaign last year shows how vital an initiative this is, as something that really resonated with our supporters and participants. This year we're looking to raise £12,000 to work with disadvantaged families in the area. Your support will make some fantastic childhood memories, introduce children to the arts for the first time, fuel young imaginations and fill little tummies."

Following last year's event, local children's centres and charities spoke of their joy and gratitude for the opportunity to provide valuable family time and food for their most vulnerable families, some of whom are unable to share daily hot meals. This year, the Arts Centre hopes to raise enough funds to reach 600 children and families and is collecting donations in person or online at https://stratford-circus.com/donations/

Local businesses wishing to offer donations or organise a fundraising event are asked to contact mia@stratford-circus.com.