Spreading Christmas Magic Across Sussex — One Turkey at a Time
Fundraising Total so far: £1010.00
On Tuesday, we officially kicked off The Great Turkey Mission 2025 our annual festive fundraiser to bring Christmas dinner to people who need it most.
This little tradition began 15 years ago with two bags of shopping and one turkey. That’s all Sara Guiel and I had when we decided to do something — even something small — to help families in our community enjoy a proper Christmas meal.
Every year since, The Great Turkey Mission has grown.
Over the years, we have discovered the genius of a potato rumbler, made friends with a local chip shop owner, had a cheeky vino at 11 am whilst peeling carrots in a Brighton restaurant, delivered the most beautiful cupcakes as a surprise for a family having a tricky time, and of course made sure we had lots of full tummies on Christmas day.
And this year, more than ever, we need your help.
What We’re Raising Money For:
This festive season, we’re supporting two brilliant local causes:
Worthing Soup Kitchen
Run by the incredible Khristina McCormack, this volunteer team provides meals, warmth, kindness, and community to those who are struggling.
Safe in Sussex
A domestic abuse charity supporting women and families in crisis. Their work is quiet, powerful, and absolutely essential — especially over Christmas when need often increases.
Together, these two charities will ensure that vulnerable people across Sussex enjoy a proper Christmas dinner: turkey, trimmings, hampers, and festive treats included.
This Year’s Goal: £3,000
That’s enough to feed 300 people at £10 a head.
But here’s the magic of this mission:
We’re calling on 200 wonderful humans to donate at least £15 each (If you can donate more please do)
Just a small amount from lots of people — and together we can make a huge difference.
Our fundraising record to date is £2,735.
A Short, Festive, Punchy 10-Day Campaign
We started on Tuesday, 25th November, and wrap up on Thursday, 4th December.
Why so fast? Both charities need the funds early so they can start shopping, prepping, and planning for Christmas week. Volunteer teams need time and resources to make magic happen — and we want to give them everything they need to do it.
And yes… You will see us proudly handing over either:
wads of cash
or
crates of goodies
So, you know exactly where your donations go.
Transparency always – no trips to the Maldives and no long lunches drinking spicy margaritas with the money raised.
Why Do I Do This?
I do it because I can.
I do it because a small action from one person really can make a difference to a few people.
And I do it because I want my boys to see that sometimes you must step forward first if you want something good to happen.
I do it because I hope it will start a ripple effect, and people will start taking their own little actions.
And I’ll be totally honest — when you hit “Go Live” on a crowdfunder, it’s scary.
You have that moment of panic:
What if it tanks? What if no one donates? What if nobody cares?
But here’s what I’ve learned:
Jump in with both feet and see what happens – whatever you raise will help!
A small amount from many people adds up to something powerful.
Kindness compounds – its always slow to start and then the word spreads.
And when people see you trying to help, more often than not… they join in.
I am also the first to admit:
I am a terrible cook.
I could not cook Christmas dinner for 300 people – my boys once asked for some more of the tough stuff for dinner – they were talking about my pork chops!
But what I can do is raise the money to feed them.
That’s my way of helping.
That’s the bit I can contribute.
How You Can Help?
Donate whatever you can https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/turkey-mission
Share this blog and tag your friends
Are you a business owner? Match-fund all or part of the total
Are you a Brighton business? Let us film a fun, festive milestone video in your space, the Christmassy the better!
Every donor gets added to the Turkey Hall of Fame.
Glorious, sparkly, packed with gratitude.
Ready to get involved?
I am on a Turkey Mission — and I need your help to make it happen.
Big Turkey Love,
Nicky x
