12 Years of Christmas Magic at Equilibrium

Since Equilibrium was founded in 2014, our ambition has always been to reduce inequalities and support people with whatever they need, or whatever they may be lacking. Sometimes that’s resources or cash, sometimes it’s food or fuel. But it can also be knowledge — we don’t always know what support is available to us, or where to go for help. We may not even realise how something is impacting us, or we may need more education about something, or the chance to get on a course and build new skills. Sometimes what people need most is company, just to get out and meet others, or a little inspiration. Whatever people need, we try to identify and bridge those gaps wherever we can.

12 Years of Supporting Our Community at Christmas

This year marks 12 years of supporting our community at Christmas time, from our community Christmas Day dinners at The Livvy, long before we took over the centre in 2021.

Ten years ago, we had the fabulous opportunity to work with Michelle Odwyer and the Bay Tree Cookery Academy, who joined our Christmas Day lunch — and we soon outgrew our venue! Now, we take dozens of people to a Christmas lunch in Liverpool every Christmas Day. We believe there are too many of us for anyone to ever feel lonely on Christmas Day, and everyone is welcome to join us.

When we started, we could only have imagined that one day the Livvy would become home to Equilibrium North West. From providing essential food hampers to gifts for children, year upon year we do our best to make Christmas extra special for those who need it most. Every Christmas, Equilibrium helps bring Christmas magic into hundreds of lives.

As more and more families struggle — even while working hard to make ends meet — the ever-increasing cost of living is hitting us all, especially at Christmas. That’s why we offer free grottos and affordable Christmas experiences: Storytime with Mrs Claus, Build-a-Teddy with the Elves in the Toy Workshop, Christmas crafts, a dance with the Grinch at our Christmas disco, or a gift from the Big Man himself in Santa’s Grotto. Alongside these experiences, we also provide the essentials that families need most — and every year, we’re proud to support more and more people.

This Year’s Fundraising Challenge

None of this would be possible without the amazing efforts of our volunteers and community, who donate toys, gifts and money for hampers, take our fabulous sledge out through the streets to raise funds, and host events and raffles throughout the year.

This year is no exception. Lorraine Wall and Eddie Gowns are embarking on an incredible mission to complete three peaks in 24 hours! Last year, they conquered Moel Famau and Snowdon — this year, they’re upping the stakes even further.

Please click the link below to donate — every single penny helps! 🩵