3. Every year at Christmas BCM gives presents to around 1,000 needy families, which is about 2,500 children aged from 0 to 15 years old. Social Services, other agencies and our own staff refer these families in need to us and the details are processed. OCTOBER: PREPARATION

4. Toys given by churches, schools and individuals across Birmingham and the surrounding area start to arrive.

5. The toys need to be unpacked, sorted and categorised. The electrical toys need batteries.

7. Boys, aged 8-12

8. Teenage boys gifts are often low in stock

9. NOVEMBER: WRAPPING

10. From the end of November through to just before Christmas volunteers select and wrap presents.

11. We are very grateful for donations of toys and gifts. Please call us on 0121 7666603 for an ‘Information for Supporters’ leaflet for details and ideas of what to give.

12. Gifts really need to be new or nearly new – many children will only receive toys from BCM. There are also many safety considerations. We want to make Christmas special for these needy families.

13. Each child receives 3 presents. A family’s presents are packed into sacks with a Christmas card, a letter and some information about the real meaning of Christmas.

14. DECEMBER: DELIVERING