The Giving Tree Gift Appeal is an annual Christmas event in Croydon town centre, bringing the community together to support local children and families in need.
It is a partnership between Centrale & Whitgift Shopping Centres, Croydon Business Improvement District (BID), and Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA) – for Reedham Children’s Trust – a local charity providing vital support to children and families across Croydon.
Giving Trees are placed in venues across the town centre, including hotels, bars, pubs, cafés, libraries, and retail stores, making it easy for the community to take part.
In 2025, the Giving Tree Appeal collected 1,837 gifts with an estimated value of £20,070, benefiting children and families across Croydon.
All donated gifts were distributed by Reedham Children’s Trust and CVA, to schools, food banks and community support services across Croydon. Recipients included Legacy Youth Zone, Majestic Community Services, Torch Light Community, Reaching Higher, London Ambulance Service, Croydon Council, Floating Counselling, Bright Futures for All, Be Inspired Youth & Community CIC and Ascent Fostering Agency, alongside several primary, secondary and specialist schools.