Children at a Sheerwater nursery are getting creative to help bring festive cheer to those who might otherwise spend Christmas Day alone.

For the second year running toddlers at Wonderbloom Nature Nursery are designing Christmas cards to raise money and buy presents for people attending FoodWise’s Christmas Day community meal, writes Josh Howard.

Nursery owner Steph Middleton said the project teaches children the importance of kindness while supporting their community.

She said: “We work with FoodWise and share the same building with them.

“They support people by giving them access to food and teaching them how to make meals on a budget. For £10 a week, they offer 20 items.

“We chose them as they’re our neighbours; it helps us teach children how to be kind.”

Last year’s initiative raised just under £500, allowing the nursery to buy more than 40 Christmas presents. Youngsters are working hard on their designs for this year’s campaign with the winning 12 being chosen following an in-nursery vote.

“Every child makes one; kids then vote on which ones should be chosen, to learn about democracy. We choose twelve to put in a pack and raised just under £500 last year. We sell them for £20 a pack.”

Presents funded by card sales are chosen to suit people of different ages and backgrounds.

“We get a mix of everything, toys, sprays, diaries, biscuit boxes and perfumes, all your usual supermarket Christmas aisle items,” added Steph.

“The kids look forward to delivering the presents to FoodWise, who then gift the presents on to those in need.”

The nursery’s community work continues throughout the year. For the past three years, families have donated items during Wonderbloom’s autumn Harvest Festival, including everyday essentials that people may struggle to afford.

You can purchase a pack of cards for £20 on www.wonderbloom.co.uk