Brave mum-of-two who survived boyfriend’s brutal attack backs our Smiles at Christmas campaign to help domestic abuse victims
Zoe Dronfield knows all too well the difference support offered through our Smiles at Christmas campaign could make
EVEN if you don't quite have the knitting ability to support our Knit A Kid A Blanket campaign, you can still make a huge difference to a vulnerable child’s life this festive season.
Our Smiles at Christmas campaign will be bringing a little cheer to the victims of domestic violence and their families.
We are also asking readers to donate toys or money to help kids affected by cancer, children who have lost a parent in the Forces, and those affected by war in the Middle East.
Mum-of-two Zoe Dronfield knows all too well how much difference your support can make.
In 2014, she was brutally attacked by her ex-boyfriend, Jason Smith.
During the eight-hour ordeal, Zoe suffered a cracked cheekbone, a bleed on the brain and a stab wound to her neck.
She also lost her short-term memory. Zoe, 40, who is mum to Cameron, 12, and Sofia, eight, said: “I fully support The Sun’s campaign.
“Living with domestic violence can damage a child. You might think they’re fine but they can be suffering inside.
“It would be wonderful to give them something to smile about this Christmas.”
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Zoe, from Coventry, spent two weeks in hospital after the attack, which saw Smith jailed for ten years.
Her children did not witness the violence but have since needed counselling to deal with the fallout from their mum’s injuries.
At the time, Zoe also received support from Women’s Aid – one of four charities The Sun and The Sun on Sunday are supporting with Smiles at Christmas.
Zoe said: “Their online forum, where survivors share their stories, really got me through everything. I really relied on it.
“The best gift a mum who is the victim of domestic violence can give her children at Christmas is to leave, and leave safely.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel – you can go on to be happy.”
Give cash
Online:
Text: To give £2, text KIDS55 2 to 70070. You can change the amount to £3, £4, £5 or £10 by changing the last figure to 3, 4, 5 or 10.
Post: Send a cheque, made payable to JustGiving Foundation, to JustGiving The Sun Appeal, Bluefin Building 2nd Floor, London SE1 0TA
Give toys
You can donate new or used toys in good condition at 1,370 branches of McColl’s convenience stores.
Toys “R” Us will accept new toys only — look for special Sun trolleys near entrances.
Tell pals
Like our Facebook page
Or tweet using #SmilesAtChristmas to let us know how you’re getting involved!