A PORT Glasgow-raised TV presenter is encouraging parents across Inverclyde to show their support for an international school meals charity and help feed children in need this Christmas.
A Place in the Sun star Jean Johansson is inspiring parents to include a Mary’s Meals gift card when they traditionally leave treats and letters out for Father Christmas on December 24 - the idea being that Santa will then pass this on to a child in need.
Mary’s Meals, which was founded in a shed in Dalmally in the Highlands by founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, feeds more than two million children every school day in 18 countries including Haiti, Malawi and Syria.
The promise of a nutritious meal encourages children into the classroom, so that instead of working or looking for food, they can gain an education and hope for a brighter future.
Mum of one, Jean, who recently landed a hosting role on This Morning, said: “Alongside milk and cookies, my son and I will be leaving out a Mary’s Meals gift card for Santa to pass on to a hungry child this year.
"These Christmas gift cards cost just £19.15 and will feed a child with Mary’s Meals for a whole school year.
“Christmas is a time for giving, and there is no better gift than the gift of hope for a hungry child.
"Mary’s Meals brings joy to children all year round, and these beautiful cards will allow you to give that joy in the form of a life-changing daily school meal.
"It’s also a great opportunity to introduce children to the idea of giving back at Christmas and showing them how they can help others at this special time of year.”
Dan McNally, head of grassroots engagement at Mary’s Meals, said: “We’re so grateful to Jean for spreading ho-ho-hope this Christmas and helping us to reach the next hungry child waiting for Mary’s Meals.
“Our beautiful Christmas cards and gifts will not only put a smile on the faces of your friends, family and Santa Claus himself, but crucially, will change the lives of hungry children living in some of the world’s poorest countries.”
Gift cards, Christmas card packs and other festive gifts are available to buy now from marysmeals.org.uk/shop.
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