Christmas for one mum from Milton Keynes is now looking all the more festive, thanks to kindness shown by the volunteer-led community group Mental Health Cleaning.
The group offers free one-off cleaning support of one room, to people struggling with their mental or physical health, and those dealing with difficult life circumstances.
Mental Health Cleaning is not paid, or grant funded. Every clean they carry out is by volunteers who give their time and care to help others in need.
"Back in September we began putting together a fresh start for a mum and her little one who had to completely rebuild their lives after leaving a very difficult past behind," said a spokesperson for the group, "Starting over is hard enough, but doing it right before Christmas is something no one should ever have to face alone.
"Thanks to the unbelievable kindness and generosity of our community, the appeal reached around £650! That’s £650 mum would have had to find herself just for basics and a few decorations to make their new place feel like home.
"Instead, she now gets a safe, cosy, hopeful Christmas with her baby."
The community effort was swelled by presents which were donated. Emily Darlington MP and Thames Valley Police were among those who provided gifts.
"We want her new beginning to feel supported - not heavy, frightening, or lonely. And because of all of you, it now feels full of care and possibility.
"A huge special thank you to our volunteers Debbie and Mike Vycan Fix It for collecting items from MK and surrounding areas, storing items, replying to messages and helping keep everything organised.
"The transformation was emotional, magical, and full of hope. Mum was absolutely blown away and beyond happy."
The spoesperson had a special message to everyone who contributed to the transformation: "Thank you for helping make this new chapter begin with love rather than struggle," they added.
