MORE than 170 Christmas chocolate boxes made their way to some of Somerset’s most vulnerable children thanks to a donation by a county accountancy firm.

AC Mole donated the boxes to children in care as part of efforts to support charitable and not-for-profit initiatives through its ACM Community scheme.

The chocolate treats were donated to children living with Somerset Council foster carers and in children’s homes following a similar gesture in 2023, when the company marked its 120th anniversary by donating 120 Easter eggs to children in care.

Amanda Gunter, a partner at AC Mole, said: “The ACM Community is about giving back to our local community and giving our staff an opportunity to participate in a meaningful way.

“Our staff donated over 70 selection boxes and the firm more than matched that bringing the total to 174 selection boxes. Everybody loves chocolate at Christmas, so hopefully this will bring a little joy to those in care or moving on from care.

“With more than 650 children and young people in care across Somerset, this generous gesture not only provides a sweet Christmas surprise but also shines a spotlight on the urgent need for more foster carers locally.”

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Cllr Heather Shearer, lead member for children, families and education, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time for children who are not living with their birth families, and small gestures like this make a huge difference.

“These chocolate boxes will bring smiles and a sense of belonging to children who need it most.

“We are incredibly grateful to AC Mole for their generosity and for helping us raise awareness of the urgent need for foster carers.

“Every child deserves a safe, supportive home, and we need more people to come forward to make that happen.

“If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time to take that step – you could change a child’s life forever.”

For more information, visit the Fostering in Somerset website or call 0800 587 9900.