A struggling family that was left living in “dangerous” conditions at a house was temporarily rehomed thanks to a charitable group aiding people in Christmas.

In fact nearly 90 families across Watford were treated to hundreds of gifts as part of an annual campaign to support struggling families in Christmas.

Fashion designer and former footballer Marvin Morgan, who died in early December, created a figurative “last wish” video calling on the community to support families in Watford by donating various goods.

Last Christmas, Fresh Ego FC, a charitable football club launched by Morgan, teamed up with Xtra Time Sports & Childcare and notable members of the community to raise £2,000 worth of foods and toys for 35 families.

This year, the group was able to raise £6,000 and provided essential foods and items, cleaning products and a range of gifts to brighten up Christmas for nearly 90 struggling households.

 

Nearly 90 families were fed and given Christmas gifts

Nearly 90 families were fed and given Christmas gifts

 

While overlooking the campaign, the team encountered one family with two children and a baby who was living in the “dangerous”  property.

Winston Davis, one of the members leading the project, said there were live electrical cables loose, windows were hanging off and signs of asbestos.

 

One family was staying in council housing that had limited furniture and was in dangerous condition

One family was staying in council housing that had limited furniture and was in "dangerous" condition

 

He explained: “We were not only able to contact the council and get them temporary accommodation, but the community provided all furniture, baby essentials and then a Christmas tree and full presents for the whole family.”

A video was released on social media showcasing the conditions the family faced, appealing for people to send various goods to help the family.

Mr Davis said: “This particular family broke my heart and I feel so honoured to know that we have been able to change their lives in such a fundamental way, mainly all through the use of social media.”

 

One family was staying in council housing that had limited furniture and was in dangerous condition

One family was staying in council housing that had limited furniture and was in "dangerous" condition

 

With the support of Puma and Xbox, many families also received gifts including football boots, Xbox consoles, Fresh Ego Kid designer clothes and more surprises along with the essential foods and goods.

One family member who received the care package said they were “beyond grateful” to see the various bits of foods, a fresh turkey for Christmas and a Christmas present for the kids.

Mr Davis said: “I can’t tell you the amount of people who have cried tears when saying thank you to the drivers.”

 

Nearly 90 families were fed and given Christmas gifts

Nearly 90 families were fed and given Christmas gifts

 

Speaking about Morgan’s death, Mr Davis said: “This year has been so much more challenging, not just because of more families, but because of the sad passing of Marvin.

“We wanted to make it a success even more so because of that. His energy, drive and commitment was infectious. If he was doing something, it had to be done properly, including this.

“He was all about the community and giving back. His partner and mother both came down to the centre while we were packing and we just hope that we did him proud.”