A VISIT to the North Wales Superkids grotto is always a humbling experience, none more so than days before Christmas.
The shelves that were well stocked just a few weeks ago, are looking pretty bare, and more referrals are coming in daily.
But the team of volunteers, lead by Jade Storey, don't stop.
Each referral is an individual, whether child, teen or care leaver up to 25-years-old. And it's the dedicated group at Superkids making sure each one is fulfilled.
Jade had recently been to Tesco Mold, to collect donations at one of the charity's drop-off points across the region.
She said: "It's been incredible, that people have been giving so much. They've been so generous.
"It's helped remind me that there are amazing people out there."
This year, one of the age groups they have struggled to have enough items for, has been the teens and above.
Jade added: "They're like the forgotten group. But just reading each referral form let's you see the person.
"Their situations are all so different, and most through no fault of their own."
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The 33-year-old, who has been involved with Superkids for more than a decade, took the helm after the death earlier this year of founder Margaret Williams MBE.
Superkids makes sure youngsters in families facing hardship for any number of reasons, would have cause to smile over the festive season.
And Jade has lots of ideas for the future, to help support as many in need as possible, adding: "I just think there is more we can do."
Superkids accepts emergency referrals up to Christmas Eve but collections and donations can be made all year round.
It's easy to see why. The grotto is brimming with sacks filled with items for collection by relevant referral agencies.
But when you realise each of those sacks equals a young person and its contents are likely all they will get this Christmas, it really hits home what Superkids do. They are the difference between a child feeling forgotten or not. And that's the reality.
• For more details about North Wales Superkids or to donate, visit northwalessuperkids.co.uk
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