A CHARITY which supports domestic abuse survivors and their families has launched a Christmas present appeal to bring some festive joy to those struggling this year.

MyCWA (Cheshire Without Abuse) is looking for donations to help take some of the stress out of the Christmas period which is a critical time of year for the mental health of many.

The charity, based in Cheshire East, provides emotional, personal and practical support to families in the county affected by domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse survivor Abi Blake, who is now an ambassador and fundraiser for the charity, said any donations would mean the world to those in need.

She added: "From pregnant women, to the elderly in homes, those with mental and physical disabilities, impairments, those who live in fear of financial abuse, those who are hand to mouth supporting their families, it allows them to provide and breathe without further worries.

"It’s such a critical time for mental health, it supports all of those who feel they can’t get through this period for their familis. Donations truly mean the world to those who desperately need them.

"I speak hand on heart from experience at a time when I was having to pay for family court fees, had no income due to the physical and mental disabilities from the injuries I sustained.

"It was thanks to MyCWA inviting the boys and I to have Christmas lunch with them, all of their volunteers had supplied and cooked for survivors and their families, on top provided every child numerous gift wrapped presents that were left under their tree for the children to collect and take home to keep.

"It brings tears to my eyes the hard grafting effort MyCWA put in with the donation appeal to help those that are without a single penny or people around them to embrace and help."

The Christmas gift appeal also raises awareness of domestic and sexual abuse and lets those suffering know they can reach out and get help.

How you can help

  • Buy a gift from the charity's Amazon wishlist
  • Make a donation via the charity's website
  • Buy a gift or re-gift an unwanted item (these can be delivered to Lily Jones Support Centre, Mill House, Brook Street, Crewe CW2 7DE or 24a Jordangate, Macclesfield SK10 1EW)