An award-winning financial planning firm has launched a heartfelt campaign this Christmas to support families facing hardship, particularly those caring for loved ones. Celtic Financial Planning, with offices in Mold, St Asaph, and London, has partnered with the North East Wales Carers Information Service (NEWCIS) to fund Christmas for three families in need.
Director Rob Lewis and his team are donating hundreds of pounds worth of vouchers to provide essential products, gifts, and festive supplies. The initiative aims to alleviate some of the pressure many families feel during the holiday season, particularly amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
“For many, Christmas is a challenging time of year, especially when money is tight,” said Rob Lewis, director at Celtic Financial Planning. “We know that carers, in particular, face immense challenges every day, often putting others before themselves. As a company at the heart of our community, we wanted to give something back by supporting three local families who are struggling this festive season.”
The financial planners are hopeful that their campaign will inspire other businesses in the region to step up and offer support to those in need. While the focus of the initiative is on helping families at Christmas, Rob stressed that there is a year-round need for assistance, whether it be for school uniforms, holiday essentials, or basic living costs.
One of the families set to benefit from the donations is an elderly couple facing a particularly difficult winter. The husband, recently diagnosed with a terminal illness and dementia, has left the family without a fuel allowance for the season. With the help of the vouchers, the family will be able to purchase presents and festive food, easing the financial burden during an incredibly trying time.
NEWCIS, which supports carers throughout North East Wales, recently relocated to a new 6,000-square-foot premises in Mold High Street, where they offer various services, including a shop, meeting rooms, and a community space for health and support groups. CEO Claire Sullivan, who has worked closely with Rob Lewis to identify families who would benefit from the donations, thanked Celtic Financial Planning for their support.
“We’re incredibly grateful for this generous gesture,” said Claire. “The families we’ve selected will truly benefit from the vouchers, and it will be life-changing for them. One family plans to use the donation to buy decorations for a child’s room, creating a safe space. Another young lady, who put university on hold to care for her mother, will be able to buy clothes, food, and gifts she otherwise could not have afforded. It’s overwhelming, and it’s made such a difference to them.”
NEWCIS currently supports around 24,000 carers in Wales, and Claire hopes more businesses will join the initiative. She added, “To be thought of by someone who doesn’t know you is a huge gesture, and as one of the recipients said, this kindness has reaffirmed their faith in humanity. It’s truly touched all of us.”
Celtic Financial Planning’s generous campaign is a testament to the power of community support and a reminder of the impact small acts of kindness can have during difficult times.
