AN eight-year-old girl has improved the Christmas of more than 200 people after a special donation to Taunton Foodbank.
Holly Manges, who lives in Cotford St Luke, has donated 215 chocolate advent calendars to the foodbank, which gives out emergency food supplies to those in need.
As part of her work with the Brownies, thoughtful Holly wanted to complete her charity badge.
She thought about what she wanted to do, and decided to collect advent calendars for the foodbank, so all the children in need of their services would be able to enjoy Christmas.
DONATE: Holly with all her advent calendars
Holly's dad, Jamie, said: "She made a poster and asked if anyone could donate.
"The word spread to family and friends and also we put it on social media.
"In a little over three weeks, she has collected more than 200 advent calendars. Some have come as far as Buckie in Scotland.
"We are really proud of her achievements, and I am sure the foodbank and the families will be very grateful at this time of year."
Holly's school friends from Cotford St Luke Primary School also got behind the project, as well as strangers from across the country.
Holly said: "I decided on advent calendars because not all families can afford one at Christmas, and every child should look forward to it.
"It makes me happy thinking of all the children who will now receive a calendar."
LEARNING: Holly at the foodbank
Mr Manges added: "The trip to the foodbank was a real eye-opener for Holly, she'll be telling her friends all about it.
"Holly learnt about the items the foodbank run short off, like tinned meat, washing up liquid and toilet paper."
Donation points are set up in supermarkets across Taunton, and items can also be dropped off at the foodbank during certain times.
Helen Wallace, manager warehouse manager and trustee, said: "In order to gain her Brownie charity badge, Holly chose to collect advent calendars for the foodbank.
"She managed to collect an astounding 215 with the help of friends and family.
"We want to thank Holly for all of her hard work and for thinking of the foodbank.
"The calendars will add extra Christmas cheer to the recipients of the boxes."
All donations can be delivered to the Foodbank at Unit 4, Belvedere Trading Estate, Albemarle Road, Taunton, TA1 1BH on Mondays and Thursdays between 9.30am and 11.30am and Tuesdays and Fridays between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
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