Strawberry Teapot Tea Room in Sudbury launches community-driven Christmas present scheme to support families hit financially by coronavirus pandemic

A new community-driven donations drive at a Sudbury tea shop hopes to bring festive cheer to those affected by the coronavirus pandemic, by providing them with extra gifts this Christmas.

The Strawberry Teapot Tea Room and Cakery has set up Operation Christmas Present, asking people to drop off gifts at the café in Friars Street, to then be donated to individuals and families facing financial challenges.

Community members are encouraged to nominate families that could benefit from the scheme, which aims to deliver the present boxes in the week leading up to Christmas.

Amanda Richardson, owner of The Strawberry Teapot, told the Free Press she is keen to give something back to the community that supported her during tough times in the past, and helped her business recover from having to close during the Covid-19 lockdown.

“I was a single parent with two children, and I think there are a lot of families out there who will find themselves in difficult times,” she said.

“I found I was a bit embarrassed and didn’t want to ask for help. But when I had difficulties, I had a lot of people rally around me.

“My customers have been simply amazing and they inspired me to do something because of how people helped me.

“I think lockdown has affected everybody in so many different ways. I want to give something back because people have helped me get my business back on its feet.

“I want to help families keep the magic of Christmas. It will allow families to concentrate on getting the staples in, and we can add the extras, so they won’t have to worry.

“If we all get together and donate something small, it will make a difference.”

Gift donations and family nominations, including confirmation they are happy to receive a gift parcel, can be dropped off at the café any time between Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Presents can include Christmas food items, biscuits, chocolates and cakes, as well as age-appropriate toys for babies, toddlers, school-age children and young teenagers.

To get in touch, email amanda@strawberryteapot.co.uk.

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