Operation Community Hamper (OCH) is gearing up for its annual Christmas collection day at The Mem in Bristol, aiming to collect donations for vulnerable families. This initiative coincides with the Bristol Rovers’ League Two match against Notts County on November 29, 2025. The charity, founded by fan Charlotte Churchill in 2020, has significantly expanded its reach, providing food hampers and gifts to communities in need during the festive season.
The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially as many families struggle during the winter months. Factors such as the cold weather and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis have intensified the difficulties faced by those in vulnerable situations, making the need for support even more urgent. Charlotte witnessed the impact of these challenges during the early days of the pandemic, when she delivered 19 hampers in her first year of operation.
Since then, the charity has seen substantial growth. In 2024, OCH delivered 1,010 hampers and provided 900 bags of gifts across the South West. The charity’s transformation into a registered charity in 2024 marked its rebranding from “Operation Christmas Hamper” to its current name, reflecting its year-round commitment to community support.
OCH’s growth in hamper deliveries is notable:
– **2020**: 19 hampers
– **2021**: 47 hampers
– **2022**: 340 hampers
– **2023**: 656 hampers and 500 bags of gifts
– **2024**: 1,010 hampers and 900 bags of gifts
– **2025 Target**: 1,235 hampers and 1,100 bags of gifts
Bristol Rovers became involved with the charity in 2022, joining forces with the Bristol City Robins Foundation and Gloucestershire Cricket Club to enhance support for local families. On collection day, volunteers will be stationed next to the club shop at The Mem from 12:00 to receive donations.
Charlotte emphasized the specific needs for the donations, stating, “We don’t collect tins because we often receive a lot of them. Those go to local homeless charities. We are looking for luxury items—nice chocolates, biscuits, jams, and honey.” She highlighted that all contributions go directly to local families, including those who may not be on benefits but are still struggling to make ends meet.
“This initiative is about supporting our community,” she added. “We receive referrals from professionals such as schools, social workers, and health visitors who identify families in need.” Each hamper represents a lifeline for families facing hardship. The deliveries are scheduled for 15 December 2025, ensuring that the items reach those in need before Christmas.
As the collection day approaches, Charlotte encourages fans and community members to contribute, no matter how small the donation. “Anyone can find themselves in a difficult situation at any time. The Rovers fans embrace the community, and it’s something that’s intrinsically in us as a club,” she remarked.
For those interested in supporting Operation Community Hamper, more information can be found on the charity’s website. As the festive season approaches, initiatives like these highlight the importance of community solidarity and support during challenging times.
