Man faces criticism for setting up GoFundMe to buy Christmas gifts for family
A father of five set up a GoFundMe to help pay for his children’s Christmas presents, but now people are criticizing him for crowdsourcing his holiday.
Ben Buckley, 32, said he was forced to cut his hours at work to help take care of his four children when his partner, Kirsty Wickings, became ill during a “complicated” pregnancy. Wickings gave birth to a healthy daughter earlier this month, but the mother was hospitalized a number of times for a lung infection and had to be put on oxygen.
While he said his reduced work hours provided enough funds for rent and utilities, with the holidays fast approaching, he was worried he wouldn’t be able to provide gifts for his children.
“I don’t like the feeling of being a charity case,” he told Hull Live. “I don’t like to feel like I’m begging.”
While his GoFundMe appeal was a success, having risen over its $2,500 goal in three days, some people online believe the request is outlandish, as Christmas should not solely be about the gifts. After all, they say, it’s the experience of something that is more meaningful than a gift.
One critic tweeted, “He’s set up a fundraising page to buy Christmas presents for his children. I think this shows everything that is wrong in this society and sends out the wrong message to his children.”
Another woman commented, “You are shameful! £2000 on xmas? And begging for it!! I spend £100 each on my kids and they have a great Christmas. Cant believe the muppets that have donated to you. Disgusting. Hope you’re kids are thoroughly embarrassed by you!”
Others, still, stuck up for the couple, who happens to be down on their luck. “I cannot understand what is wrong with asking for help. This family is not forcing anyone to donate, so why all the negative comments,” a supporter commented on the GoFundMe page. Another chimed in, “I can’t believe some of the comments on here.. if you don’t like it then carry on past! The last thing this family needs is more negativity. Hope you and your lovely family have an amazing Christmas.”
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