No one should face life alone. Join our Christmas Campaign and Be There for young people from care. 

This year, our Christmas campaign is inviting you to remember a time when someone was there for you. Perhaps they came to watch your school play, helped you study for exams, or supported you as you settled into your first home. Now imagine facing all those things alone. For many young people growing up in care, this is a reality.

At Break, we believe no young person should go through life without support. This Christmas, you have the chance to be there for a young person who, through no fault of their own, has faced a difficult start in life. With your help, we can ensure they have someone by their side—not just for one day, but throughout the year.

Like Maryanne who has been part of the Break family since she was 13. Now 30, she reflects on just knowing that someone was there for her has shaped her journey.

“When I first left care at 18, it was really overwhelming doing things by myself. I thought there wouldn’t be anyone there to remind you how to do things or just be that support when you’re feeling unsure. But Break was always like, ‘Don’t worry, we’ve got you.’ 

“And they really did. They helped me move into my first flat, making sure I had everything I needed. They didn’t just leave me to figure it out on my own. Having them there meant that I didn’t feel lost. It was like someone had my back the whole time. 

“I remember when I started working on the CoffeeBreak van with Joe. It wasn’t just a job; it was a turning point and he really helped to boost my confidence. It gave me skills and made me feel like, ‘Yeah, I can do this’ and start applying for jobs. 

“Even now, they’re there for me. Whenever I gets nervous about something or worried about, I don’t freak out as much. I know I can double-check with them—like, ‘Is this right? Is this ok?’ And just having that reassurance makes all the difference. One time, I was a bit nervous about Christmas plans. I rang Maren and she Maren just said, ‘You don’t have to do it all, you can say no and take a breather.’ And she was right. It was such a small thing, but it lifted so much weight off me. 

“And for my 30th birthday they got me a cake and card full of photos of everything I had done with Break over the years. It was really nice getting that and knowing they still think of me.

“It’s amazing how those small gestures, like a phone call or just being reminded that you’re not alone, can mean so much. I used to think I had to do everything by myself, but I know it’s okay to ask for help. And that’s what Break taught me. They’ve always been there for me, and I know they always will be.” 

Your donation, no matter how much will make a lasting impact. It means more young people like Maryanne can have someone to lean on through all of life's moments - good or bad. Whether it's helping them develop their confidence, celebrate personal milestones, or navigate the challenges of adult life - we’re there so they never face life's challenges alone.