Silent Santa Appeal wins the County Durham Together Award

We are overjoyed to share the brilliant news…

…that the Silent Santa Appeal has won County Durham’s Unsung Hero Award, presented at Hardwick Hall on 4 December.

We could not be prouder of Ruth and Gerald Lee, whose tireless dedication since 2017 has ensured hundreds of presents reach children in need each Christmas. Their quiet, selfless work turns a difficult season into something joyful for so many families, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of their compassion and commitment. Warmest congratulations to Ruth and Gerald, and our heartfelt thanks for everything you do to make the holidays special.

Please read a message from Gerald Lee, which he wrote just after receiving the news of being finalist:

“We were delighted to receive a call from Durham County Council confirming that the Silent Santa Appeal has been chosen as a finalist in the Unsung Hero Award. While Ruth and I have been invited to Hardwick Hall this week, the true success of the Silent Santa Award belongs to you – each and every one of you who has taken the Appeal to heart and given so generously.
We may not know whether the Appeal will be awarded the top honour, but what matters most is that your kindness has been recognised. Somewhere, someone has witnessed the thoughtful actions you have taken to help a child you will never meet – a child whose face will shine with joy when they receive a Christmas gift they never expected. It is because of those generous acts that the Silent Santa Appeal has been submitted and celebrated, leading to its place as a finalist

For many years now, we have asked for your support to help local children who might otherwise receive very little – and in some cases, nothing – at Christmas. When we first began, we were told that the children would be grateful for the simplest of gifts: a comb, a brush, toothpaste, shampoo, or something warm to wear. That advice gave us a glimpse into just how great the need is, and how even the smallest kindness can bring a spark of joy during the long, cold days of winter.

Thanks to the support of thousands of people over the years, the Silent Santa Appeal has been able to bring smiles to countless children’s faces and offer them a glimmer of hope knowing that there are good-hearted people willing to help.

Right now, shoeboxes and Christmas carrier bags are arriving steadily. If you are planning to contribute, it would be a great help if you could confirm your delivery with me, so Ruth and I can plan accordingly. Like many of you, December is a very busy time for us both, and your cooperation will help.

On behalf of the children who will benefit from your kindness this Christmas and for those in the past  - we  THANK YOU. 

We wish you a Very Merry Christmas, and a New Year filled with Peace, Health, and Happiness.

Best wishes

Gerald & Ruth Lee”