WomanKIND Clydesdale has launched its annual Kindness at Christmas appeal, with a donation box now available at the Gillespie Centre in Biggar ahead of a community gift-packing day on Sunday 22 November.
Donations can be left in the collection box at the Gillespie Centre, 74 High Street, Biggar.
The volunteer-run group, which supports individuals and families in need across Clydesdale, distributed more than 1,175 gifts in 2025, compared with just 140 when the project first began.
Now in its twelfth year, the initiative brings together volunteers, local organisations and residents to ensure people experiencing difficult circumstances receive a present at Christmas.
Posting on social media, the group said
“We work with Organisations like Clydesdale Foodbank, Healthy Valleys Organisation, Covey Befrienders, the local Church, The Gillespie Centre, Biggar Community Action Group, Blue Triangle etc, to identify those who would appreciate a gift- and for some it is the only gift they receive.”
The gifts include essential toiletries and small treats, and the organisations help identify people who would particularly appreciate a gift, including those who may otherwise receive nothing at Christmas.
WomanKIND is appealing for donations of soap, shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving products, body spray and handkerchiefs.
The appeal has grown considerably since its beginnings as Handbags at Christmas, when volunteers initially prepared 140 gifts. In 2025, the total exceeded 1,175, more than eight times the original number. Small unused gifts such as perfume, make-up, jewellery, hats, socks and scarves are also welcome, although the group has stressed that handbags are no longer required!
The value of the project has been recognised by organisations receiving the gifts. Last year
“I just wanted to express my thanks for the gifts that you handed in to our office. I have service users who do not have any family, so they will be delighted to receive one of these gifts.”
South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, Dec 2025
Blue Triangle, which supports people experiencing homelessness and other difficulties, also thanked the volunteers for their gifts to people using its Lanark services.
Donations can be left in the collection box at the Gillespie Centre, 74 High Street, Biggar.
Residents can also help by volunteering at the gift-packing day at the Gillespie Centre on Sunday 22 November, beginning at 10 am.
Volunteers will sort, pack, and wrap donated items for distribution, with sandwiches, cake, and music provided during the day.
Further information about the group and its projects is available at womankind-clydesdale.weebly.com