The Telegraph & Argus Christmas Toy Appeal will give a Bradford Council care home child more than an extra gift this season - it will pass on the priceless message that people care.

Steve Richardson, assistant unit manager at a children's home in West Bowling, said words could not express how much gifts from generous readers would boost children and care staff living and working in homes across the district.

"Everyone who chips in will give a child the thought, 'someone cares about me'. This campaign will make Christmas that little bit more special," he said.

The T&A aims to collect gifts by December 20 for each child living in or using a Council care home this Christmas. That means collecting presents for 57 long-term residents aged between five years and adulthood and hundreds more gifts for disabled children receiving day, evening or respite care at one of the three specialist centres in the district.

Staff at the homes aim to provide the same stability and comfort experienced in any normal family home.

"We aim to recreate a family environment by taking on the role of corporate parents," said Mr Richardson, who has worked at the home in West Bowling for almost two years. "It's the most rewarding job I've ever had."

He began working in homes because he wanted to make a difference to the lives of care home children.

He said: "The futures of these children shouldn't be hindered because of their past.

"They are good kids and they should receive the same opportunities as everyone else.

"Our job is to help them enjoy and make the best of life, the same as any parent."

He described the role as more than a job. His work place is also his second home, with the children and staff as his second family.

And, as in most homes, a budget dictates what gifts the children can expect to find on Christmas morning.

"Christmas Day is exactly the same as it is in anyone's home - it's a bit hectic and everyone mucks in," he said.

The children do make lists at Christmas, but it is impossible to buy every gift that a child wants or needs. And, like any other parent, care home staff want to be able to provide the most loving and caring Christmas possible.

The generosity of T&A readers will help to add to a child's Christmas.

Not only will a child receive the gift he or she wished for, but every child who benefits from the appeal will be boosted in spirit and confidence for much longer than one day.

Each present must be brand new and unwrapped to help care staff organise the gifts before parcelling them up and giving them to the children.

Donors are asked to avoid giving toy weapons or second-hand items. Presents for babies should also be avoided as there are no children under the age of five living in the homes.

Anyone wanting to give to the T&A appeal should do so before the campaign closes on December 20.