Cameron and Loki

In the heart of East Kilbride, two young friends, Cameron and Loki, are leading a grassroots movement to ensure that no one in their community faces the festive season without food or gifts. Their journey began in 2023 when Cameron, then just seven years old, asked his mother why some people don’t receive much for Christmas. This simple question ignited a spark that has grown into a significant charitable effort.

A Humble Beginning

Determined to make a difference, Cameron teamed up with his friend Loki to create an Amazon wishlist filled with toys and crafts. They shared the list with friends and family, and the response was overwhelming. The donations were collected and delivered to Loaves and Fishes Foodbank, providing much-needed support to local families during the holiday season.

Expanding Their Reach

Building on their success, the duo sought to increase their impact in 2024. They organised fundraising activities, including selling popcorn and hot chocolate at their karate class and school fayre, and hosting a raffle and tombola. These efforts raised over £500, which was used to purchase gifts and food for the foodbank, benefiting individuals of all ages, from babies to the elderly.

Summer Initiative

In the summer of 2025, with the school holidays approaching, Cameron and Loki recognized the challenges families face during this time. They organized a sponsored litter pick in their local area, raising £200 to assist the foodbank in supporting families over the school break.

Preparing for 2025 Festivities

As the 2025 festive season approaches, Cameron and Loki are planning their most ambitious project yet. They have set up an Amazon wishlist and a PayPal fundraiser to collect donations. The community’s response has been heartening, with 134 items already pledged. The boys are also planning additional fundraising activities, including a stall at the upcoming school Christmas fayre.

Cameron: “I want to help people who can’t pay for food and gifts because I feel bad for them. It makes me happy doing this knowing it will make other people happy. This year, I’d like to make at least 100 people happy with food and presents for Christmas.”

Loki: “A lot of people aren’t as lucky as me, and I want to help them. Some people don’t get Christmas presents or even food. Everyone should have a good Christmas and meals. It makes me feel good to be able to help people and make them smile.”

Addressing Broader Issues

While Cameron and Loki’s efforts are commendable, they also highlight broader societal issues. According to recent statistics:

• Approximately 23% of children in Scotland live in relative poverty, with higher rates among those in single-parent families and large households. Joseph Rowntree Foundation
• Pensioner poverty remains a significant concern, with nearly 160,000 pensioners in Scotland living in relative poverty, the highest rate in almost 20 years. The Poverty Alliance
• The winter months pose additional challenges, with 21,983 deaths registered in Scotland during the four months of winter 2023/24, a 10% decrease from the previous winter. National Records of Scotland
• Flu infections have also been a concern, with 463 deaths directly attributed to influenza in the first 14 weeks of 2025, marking the highest number in 45 years. Asthma + Lung UK

These figures underscore the importance of community initiatives like those led by Cameron and Loki in supporting vulnerable populations during challenging times.

How to Support

Community members wishing to contribute to Cameron and Loki’s efforts can do so by visiting their Amazon wishlist or donating via their PayPal fundraiser. All contributions will go directly to Loaves and Fishes Foodbank, ensuring that families in East Kilbride have access to essential items during the festive season.

If you have a story to share or know someone who is a community hero contact us at contact@thecommunityimpact.co.uk