On Wednesday 10 December, members of the Eton community gathered for a festive afternoon of present-wrapping in support of The Link Foundation, one of the School’s five supported charities this year.
The event was organised by Ben H (Year 13), who had reached out to boys in the weeks leading up to the end of term, encouraging them to donate gifts for disadvantaged teenagers in the local community. The response was impressive: Eton boys collectively donated approximately 125 gifts.
On the day itself, with the help of Mr Demery who was so generous with his time and support, the boys assembled, all sporting Santa hats, eating mince pies, and working together to wrap the presents. The festive atmosphere created an enjoyable and relaxed environment, while maintaining a clear focus on the purpose of the event.
Two representatives from The Link Foundation were kind enough to attend in person to support the wrapping and speak to boys directly. They outlined the charity’s work with vulnerable young people in the local area and explained how the donated gifts would be distributed in time for Christmas to teenagers who have faced extreme life challenges: domestic violence, losing a parent, preparing to leave the care system or reside in assisted housing.
The Foundation currently helps over 600 children – including 150 teenagers at Christmas – so the boys’ efforts will no doubt have a direct impact.
As one of Eton’s five supported charities, The Link Foundation plays a vital role within the wider community and hearing from its representatives helped to reinforce the importance of sustained engagement beyond a single event.
All in all, the afternoon proved both productive and uplifting, combining Christmas spirit with meaningful charitable action. The success of the gift drive was a testament to the kindness of the Eton community and demonstrated how collective effort, even in small acts, can make a tangible difference at Christmas.
