# #SecretSantaSacrifice raises funds for Age UK

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2015/12/22/secretsantasacrifice-raises-funds-for-age-uk/
- Published: 2015-12-22T09:00:27+00:00
- Author: Melanie May

**A social media campaign is helping [Age UK](http://www.ageuk.org.uk/) this Christmas
by asking people to donate the money they would have spent on a Secret Santa gift
to the charity instead.**

Following a successful launch last Christmas by agency We Are Social, #SecretSantaSacrifice
is back for a second year and invites people to visit [secretsantasacrifice.co.uk](http://www.secretsantasacrifice.co.uk)
and select a ‘gift’ from a range of virtual Secret Santa favourites, such as novelty
pants, a giant pencil or silly glasses.

The site then asks people to donate the amount they would have spent on purchasing
their Secret Santa gift by entering their chosen donation amount and completing 
the transaction through JustGiving. Participants are then invited to share their
gift with the person who would have received the Secret Santa present via Twitter,
Facebook or email.

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Laurie Boult, head of fundraising at Age UK, said:

> “The festive season can be particularly difficult for lonely older people. A £
> 5 donation could help us answer a call from an older person who has nowhere to
> turn, which is a lot more meaningful than something bought over the counter for
> the same price.  We really do appreciate the support of We Are Social and all 
> who sacrifice their Secret Santa gifts for Age UK this Christmas.”

According to Age UK, half a million older people spend Christmas alone. The money
raised from the campaign will go towards providing support, companionship, and advice
to older people and their families.

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