Calico’s very own Jessica Holt has once again gone above and beyond to spread festive cheer, making this year’s Christmas gift appeal her most impactful yet.
Since the start of 2025, Jess has been collecting gifts with a special focus on teenage girls and boys, determined to ensure that no young person is left out of the magic of Christmas morning. Giving back has always been close to her heart, and this year she took her commitment one step further by launching a fundraiser to support the appeal.
Her efforts resulted in an incredible 116 Christmas gifts, including 70 makeup sets and 46 gift sets, ensuring dozens of young people felt remembered and celebrated.
These thoughtful presents will bring joy to dozens of young people across Burnley and Padiham, continuing on from 2024 when she first started creating makeup kits with her own money before rallying the community to join her cause.
Earlier this year, Jess also hosted a fundraising event to raise vital funds to purchase additional gifts.
Reflecting on the support she’s received, Jess said: “I want to take a moment to highlight the incredible generosity of everyone who has kindly donated, their contributions have made a huge difference.
“The Gift Appeal is something I’m truly passionate about, and I’ll continue supporting it for as long as I can. I encourage everyone to get involved in any way they can — it really does make a difference.”
As Burnley Together continues its vital work supporting families during the festive season, Jess’ dedication ensures teenage boys and girls, often overlooked in Christmas appeals, feel just as special on Christmas morning.