By Lesley Griffiths

MS for Wrexham

I’m a long-time supporter of Teams4U and the charity recently launched its Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

Each year Teams4U run this nationwide initiative to provide Christmas gifts to vulnerable children and families who are unlikely to receive any presents.

People are asked to find an old shoebox, wrap it in Christmas paper and fill it with useful gifts. When completed, the shoeboxes should be dropped off at the Teams4U warehouse in Llay before the deadline of Monday 2 December.

Teams4U then work with the British Red Cross and deliver the packages to some of the most disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, many of whom have fled the war in Ukraine.

The shoebox appeal, which was started in Wrexham by Teams4U founder, Dave Cooke over 30 years ago, is such a worthy cause.

It’s still going strong after all these years largely thanks to the generosity of local residents and the positive impact it has on the lives of vulnerable children and parents cannot be overstated.

Andrew Ranger MP and I recently visited the team to drop off our donations and discovered that, last year, Teams4U donated 64,000 shoeboxes to those in need.

If anyone is interested in taking part in this year’s appeal, all the information can be found online.

Last week, the Welsh Government announced registered childcare premises in Wales will no longer have to pay business rates.

Since 2019, premises like day nurseries have not paid business rates. This temporary arrangement was due to end in 2025 but Welsh Ministers have confirmed that rate relief will now be permanent.

The Welsh Government estimates this will save the sector £3.4m annually and it is hoped the extra money will enable childcare providers to invest in staff, create new jobs and reduce fee increases for parents.

With the dark nights drawing in, keeping warm is a real concern for some constituents this winter, particularly during this cost-of-living crisis.

To help combat the issues, the Welsh Government announced £1.5m will be distributed to councils across the country to fund warm hubs.

These safe spaces will support individuals and families, providing warmth and a place to socialise in the colder months.

In Wrexham, many of the county’s libraries are once again taking part in the Warm Places initiative. Our local libraries are there for anyone who is struggling this winter.

If you’re a constituent and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me via email: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales or call 01978 355743.