Every year at the University of York we come together as a community, with staff, alumni and friends, to raise money in order to provide Christmas presents to our Independent Students. At the University we use the term ‘Independent Student’ for students with care experience and estranged students, many of whom are studying without parental support. This is the 8th year of this fantastic campaign and we intend to build on the huge success of previous years and put together Christmas Stockings packed full of love, surprises and festive magic.

If you would like to make a donation it would be greatly appreciated. We understand that a donation may not be possible, so please show you care by sharing the campaign as far and wide as you can - let’s generate as much festive cheer together as we can. We have more Independent Students studying with us than ever this year and we want to ensure they all feel festive and supported this Christmas. 

Please join us in showing a little love.  

Our former students have really appreciated the gifts they have received in previous years. Below are some comments they have shared about how these generous gifts have made them feel;

• When the weather gets dark and my friends go home for Christmas, it can feel particularly lonely on campus. The stocking is a nice reminder that people are thinking of me and that I have something to look forward to. I still wear my gloves from last year! :)

• The gifts were truly the highlight of my Christmas last year as someone who has no family at this time of year. I felt as though someone had really thought about me in this festive season, which is an especially difficult time for me. Thank you!

• I have never been so excited for Xmas as I had been last year. It truly reinforces that idea and feeling if comfort in a community that sees me and supports me like a family should.

• I loved it, it made me feel special, appreciated and loved. I enjoyed opening each one and each one brought a smile or a laugh.

• It gave me something to look forward to on Christmas day as there were gifts to open!

• I was really grateful with the mix of things that I received in my stocking, I felt pretty genuine joy as I was surprised at how nice it is to receive snacks and useful knickknacks. It alleviated some tension I had built up at the end of term and acted as a wholesome reminder to stay positive and work towards my goals at uni because I felt supported by the team.

Where will the money go?

The money raised will be spent on the gifts for the stockings that are individually wrapped by volunteers from the University community. We are aiming to raise around £4,500, so that we can put together some great stockings for our students. However, the amount spent on gifts will be determined by how much we raise. Donations will also cover the cost of other celebrations such as Christmas Dinner (on Christmas Day) for a group of Independent Students at a local restaurant.

Find us here

If you have any questions or would like to make contact, our email address is student-independent@york.ac.uk.