“There are parents who must choose between putting food on the table or buying a present for their child — between heating the home or getting a toy. That just shouldn’t be the reality,” says Illhaam Jabot.
Having grown up in Malawi, where over two-thirds of the population lives on less than £1.60 a day, Illhaam knows poverty firsthand. Yet she describes the situation facing children in Birmingham as nothing short of “insane,” with families forced into impossible decisions just to have a gift under the tree on Christmas morning.
Illhaam, an intern with Birmingham PlayCare Network (BPCN) and Thrive Together Birmingham as part of her university placement, has long wanted to help children in need. Now, she is part of the dedicated team distributing gifts through the Brumwish appeal to underprivileged and homeless children across the city.
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“Since moving here six years ago, I wasn’t aware poverty was so widespread in Birmingham,” Illhaam explains. “Hearing these stories reinforces how critical it is to give back.”
Brumwish is BirminghamLive’s annual Christmas campaign encouraging readers to donate toys for children who might otherwise wake up with nothing. Partnering with Thrive Together Birmingham and Edgbaston Cricket Ground, more than 50,000 toys have been distributed citywide in recent years. Yet the demand remains staggering—about half of Birmingham’s children live in poverty, rising to nearly three-quarters in some inner-city areas.
Despite the heartbreaking stories, Illhaam finds purpose in helping those in need. “Thanks to donations from individuals, organisations, and even an elderly couple crocheting gifts, we’ve been able to bring so much support to families,” she says. “We had requests for 15,000 toys — it’s overwhelming, but seeing everyone come together is truly heartwarming and fulfilling.”
Time is running out for donations to Brumwish. By selecting an item from the campaign’s Amazon Wishlist, donors can ensure children in the region receive gifts on Christmas Day. Gifts are sent to Edgbaston Stadium, where charity partners handle distribution.
“I’ve always wanted to work with a charity and contribute like this,” Illhaam adds. “Being part of this initiative through my degree has been a wonderful and rewarding experience.”
Emma Payne of BPCN confirms readiness for the season: “We have a team of volunteers sorting and packing toys to ensure they reach the right organisations in time for Christmas.”