THIS YEAR’S Redditch Christmas Toy Appeal has been launched to help ensure struggling families in the town have a good Christmas.
Now in its fourth year, the drive is backed by the Revitalise Redditch group of local churches, AOK, the town’s Acts of Kindness charity and your Redditch Standard.
The appeal helped more than 600 children last year but the demand looks set to be even higher this year as, within the first two hours, more than 100 referrals were made for struggling families needing assistance.
Eligible families are referred by agencies, including The JobCentre, schools, the borough council and social services.
The recipients are given a voucher with a unique number on which they can exchange for a toy for Christmas.
Donations need to be in by December 14 but the organisers say ‘the sooner the better’ to help the scheme run smoothly.
Drop-off points include St Stephen’s Church, the Redditch Standard office in Church Green East, the Kingfisher Centre’s guest services, Feckenham Church, Kate Bosworth Hair in Headless Cross and, from December 7, Unit 9 – a former shop – in the Kingfisher Centre.
Elaine Whitfield, warden at St Stephen’s Church, said: “With the voucher scheme, we try and make it as close to a shopping experience as possible so that dignity is maintained.
“The people of Redditch are always so generous but I think this year the demand will be greater than it has ever been so I am hoping residents will rise to the challenge again.
“It is a fantastic way of giving to the local community and demonstrating the love of God throughout Redditch.”
In the past, the drive has requested toys and games for particular age ranges but this year they are needed right across the board.
This year there has been less support from local businesses and Elaine has urged any companies able to help to get in touch.
Anyone who would like to help with the hub or the toy collection or businesses which can assist should email Elaine at [email protected] to register their interest.
