For many of us, Christmas is a time to go home, to be surrounded by family, warmth, and love. But for some of our students, that support network simply doesn’t exist.
At the University of York, we’re proud to be home to a growing number of care experienced and estranged students, remarkable young people who are pursuing their studies without the safety net of family. While others pack their bags for the holidays, some of these students will remain in York, away from the celebrations so many of us take for granted.
That’s where our Christmas Stocking Appeal comes in.
Now in its ninth year, this campaign is our way of saying you matter, you belong and we care. With your help, we’ll fill stockings with thoughtful gifts, treats and messages of kindness to bring a little magic to Christmas morning.
Donate today to help us share warmth, comfort and joy with every independent student at York.…
Why Your Gift Matters?
A simple stocking may not change the world but to the person receiving it, it can mean everything.
Each year, students tell us how much these small gestures of kindness have lifted their spirits during what can be a lonely time:
- “It’s holidays like these that are especially difficult and your gesture makes it just that bit warmer.”
- “This is my fourth year getting this from York and this has been the most relevant one yet - safe to say you just made a disabled student's Christmas. So just an extra big thanks to everyone who helped put it together. And merry Christmas back!”
- “This stocking means a lot to me, as the York community was the first to give me a Christmas gift in a very long time. I’ve deeply appreciated everything, and it’s bittersweet knowing this will be my last. Thank you again for your kindness and generosity. It really means the world to me.”
- “I would like to say a big thank you, I didn't even expect to receive these types of gifts and it was a great surprise. I didn’t think I knew what a stocking actually was haha . Thank you to all who put the thought into offering independent student gifts for the holidays. I really appreciate it.”
Your donation will remind every independent student that they are part of the York family.
🎄 A £10 gift could provide a stocking filler.
🎄 £30 could help fill a full Christmas stocking.
🎄 £50 could support a place at our Christmas Day meal.
🎄 Or surprise us with a donation amount of your choosing, your generosity could help us go further, reach more students and make this Christmas truly unforgettable.
Our Goal
This year, we’re aiming to raise £6,000 - enough to give every independent student a beautifully wrapped stocking and a joyful Christmas experience.
All gifts are thoughtfully chosen, individually wrapped by volunteers from our University community and delivered with messages of warmth and hope. Funds will also support a Christmas Day meal, offering students the chance to share food and laughter with others who might otherwise spend the day alone.
Every pound you give helps make this possible.
Please give what you can, and share this campaign to spread the word to everyone in our community.
Join Our Community of Care
Behind every stocking is someone like you, a member of the York community who believes no student should feel forgotten at Christmas.
Whether you donate, volunteer or share this campaign, you’re helping us show our students that they are seen, supported and loved.
Together, we can make sure every independent student has something special to open on Christmas Day and a reminder that they have a family here at York.
If you have any questions or would like to get in touch, please email yustart@york.ac.uk
Donate today and help us make Christmas brighter for our independent students at York.
