Oldbury Salvation Army appeals for toy donations to help families at Christmas
The church hopes to provide gifts for hundreds of children this year, with particular need for toys suitable for youngsters aged eight to 12
The Salvation Army is appealing for donations of new toys and gifts to help make Christmas special for children in Oldbury and surrounding areas.
The charity's Christmas Present Appeal aims to support families struggling with the cost of living, ensuring no child goes without a present on Christmas Day.
Last year, Oldbury Salvation Army distributed gift parcels, each containing five presents, to more than 300 children thanks to donations from local residents and businesses.
Church leaders Deborah and Jon Hampton said they feared rising living costs would mean even more families needed help this year.
They said: "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."
The church, in Merton Close, off Pound Road, will be collecting new, unwrapped toys from Monday, November 9, until Sunday, December 6.
There is particular demand for gifts suitable for children aged eight to 12, although donations for all age groups are welcome.
Suggested gifts include books, educational toys, dolls, action figures, sports equipment, baby clothes, toiletries, clothing, hats, scarves and gift vouchers for older children.
Donations can be taken to the church at Merton Close, Oldbury, B68 8NG, or made through its JustGiving page.
The gifts will be sorted and distributed to local children and families through community groups, schools and social services.
The church is also organising several events in the run-up to Christmas.
These include a Praise Party Mania on December 6, when children will learn the nativity story before performing it at 5pm; Messy Church on December 11 at 6pm; and a Christingle celebration at 4pm on Sunday, December 20, followed by a carol service at 5pm.
For more information about the appeal, email [email protected] or call 0121 552 6901 or 07827 192137.