Cradley Heath Salvation Army appeals for Christmas toy donations
The appeal aims to bring festive cheer to children from families facing financial hardship, with teenage boys' gifts particularly needed this year
The Salvation Army is appealing for donations of new toys and gifts to help children in Cradley Heath and surrounding areas enjoy Christmas.
The church's annual Christmas Present Appeal aims to support families struggling with the cost of everyday essentials, including food, heating and household bills.
Last year, the generosity of local people and businesses helped Cradley Heath Salvation Army distribute Christmas parcels, each containing more than five gifts, to more than 330 children through 14 schools, family hubs and agencies.
Black Country Women's Aid and two family centres in Kidderminster also benefited.
However, the church fears rising living costs will mean even more families need support this year.
Lisa Goble, church leader at Cradley Heath Salvation Army, said: “This Christmas families are wondering how they’ll get through the week. Our Christmas Present Appeal is an opportunity for people in our community to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have next to nothing.
“Christmas is meant to be a time of joy and togetherness, but for the people who are already struggling to put food on the table or heat their homes, it can be incredibly stressful and isolating.
“We believe every child deserves to experience joy on Christmas morning. We are always overwhelmed by the generosity of the public in supporting our appeal each year, and hope the good people of Cradley Heath and environs can help us again to make sure every child wakes up on Christmas Day with a smile on their face.”
New, unwrapped toys can be donated at the Salvation Army church in Meredith Street, Cradley Heath, from Monday, November 9, until Friday, December 4.
Although gifts for children of all ages and genders are welcome, there is a particular need for presents suitable for teenage boys.
Suggested donations include educational toys, books, dolls, action figures, sports equipment, clothing, toiletries, gloves, scarves, hats and gift vouchers for older children.
Donations can also be made at the Salvation Army charity shop in Stourbridge and other Salvation Army churches in the Black Country. People can also contribute through the appeal's JustGiving page.
The gifts will be sorted and distributed to children and families through local groups, schools and social services.
The local Salvation Army has also secured a £500 donation from APCOA Parking UK to provide a Christmas meal for 50 people on Tuesday, December 22.
For more information about the appeal, visit the Salvation Army website, email [email protected] or call 01384 563570.