AN EVESHAM church and charity is ensuring some of the market town’s children who might not otherwise receive a gift will wake up to presents on Christmas Day.
The Salvation Army is encouraging local people to add an extra toy to their shopping list so families struggling to buy a gift for their children can make sure there is something for them to open on December 25.
Major Ian Harris, the Salvation Army’s divisional leader in Severn and Somerset Division said: “During the festive season, when many are enjoying celebrations with friends and family, unfortunately, many others are struggling to make ends meet.
“The Christmas story inspires us as a church to reach out to those in need all year round, but especially at Christmas, so we’re running the Christmas Present Appeal to try to ensure that every child gets a present.
“It’s wonderful to see children’s faces light up when they open their Christmas presents and if you have children, grandchildren, or children you support, think of what they might like in their Christmas stocking and consider buying an extra present and donating it to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Present appeal.
“We’re asking for brand-new toys or gifts so the families we support feel extra special and our team of volunteers will deliver your generous Christmas gifts to those who might otherwise go without.”
Evesham residents are invited to donate a new unused and unwrapped toy for a child aged 0 to 16 years old to The Salvation Army’s charity shop on 41 Bridge Street or they can arrange to take them to The Salvation Army hall on The Leys by calling 01386 45806.
The Salvation Army will sort and distribute the gifts to children and families in the area through The Salvation Army’s own networks, local groups, and social services.
Gifts can include anything from educational toys for the very youngest child, to games, toys and accessories for older children.
Visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/donate for more.
Gift ideas for children and young people:
· 0-3 years: colourful and fun educational toys, cot mobiles, baby clothes, bath toys, CDs of suitable music and nursery rhymes;
· 3-5 years: books, dressing-up clothes, cars, lorries, dolls, action figures, colourful and fun educational toys, CDs (music, stories and nursery rhymes), suitable DVDS, colouring sets, pencils, crayons, books, puzzles, footballs;
· 5-9 years: dolls and action figures, educational games and toys, stationery (colouring sets, pencils, crayons, school sets), CDs and family-friendly DVDs, books, puzzles, word search, crosswords, skateboards, sports equipment and clothing;
· 9-12 years: games and toys, sports equipment and clothing, stationery, CDs, DVDs, books, T-Shirts, hair ornaments, gloves, scarves, hats;
· 13-16 years: CDs, DVDs, books, toiletries (please try to ensure non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats and other fashion accessories.
