This November, children’s charity St Christopher’s launches its annual Christmas appeal, raising vital funds to help young people in care take their first steps towards a brighter future.

St Christopher’s is a charity with more than 150 years of experience children and young people. It provides life-changing homes and services and creates brighter futures for children and young people in care and leaving care, and those in fostering or on the edge of care. It helps these young people build the confidence, independence, and life skills they need to thrive.

This year’s appeal highlights Mia’s story – a powerful example of how everyday experiences can transform a young person’s life. When Mia first arrived at one of St Christopher’s homes, she felt lost and anxious after years of instability. She had fallen out of education, struggled with social anxiety, and spent much of her time alone in her room. But with encouragement and support from St Christopher’s dedicated team, Mia began to rebuild her confidence, one step at a time.

From taking her first train journey and learning to cook, to joining the charity’s Young People’s Panel and exhibiting her artwork, Mia discovered belief in herself again. Today, she’s thriving, connected, and excited about her future.

“Mia’s story shows how real change begins with the first step,” said Jonathan Whalley, CEO of St Christopher’s. “Through everyday moments – like cooking, travelling, or expressing themselves creatively – young people begin to see what they’re capable of. That’s the kind of transformation our appeal makes possible.”

This Christmas, a gift of £35 can help fund one-to-one support sessions that empower young people to build practical skills, confidence, and hope. Every donation makes an impact – helping St Christopher’s create more opportunities for young people to take those first steps forward.

For more information, to donate, or to read Mia’s full story, please visit:

www.stchris.org.uk/Christmas