Putting the Christmas spirit in perspective | Letters

Three Christmas cheers for the Guardian and Observer's appeal in aid of refugee children, for combining both the need for charity and change - and showing society that the two are not mutually exclusive.

The seasonal concern for others - from restaurants opening for the homeless to toy and gift donations - is always uplifting. But before Boxing Day morning has even begun, consumers will be splurging cash at the sales and government policy continuing to create the kind of desperate need that a few pounds in the charity tin at Christmas can never solve.