Ramsgate’s Salvation Army is calling on the community in Thanet to donate new toys to its Christmas Present Appeal in support of families who will struggle to make ends meet over the festive season.
Every year Salvation Army churches ask people to donate new toys and gifts for children whose families cannot put food on the table, heat their homes or pay their bills.
Last year, Ramsgate Salvation Army provided gifts and presents to more than 500 children and the church and charity fears more people will need support this year.
Heather Whitewood, Salvation Army church leader and present appeal coordinator, said: “The Salvation Army’s present appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have very little.
“We are incredibly grateful for the public’s generosity over the years and hope this year our appeal will be able to bring some respite to those who are struggling the most.
“Christmas is a time when financial worries are brought into sharp focus as the cost of living crisis continues to have a devastating impact on families who can’t afford to heat their homes or put a nutritious meal on the table.
“Helping parents provide a gift for their child not only eases financial pressures but helps bring the joy of Christmas into their homes.”
The Salvation Army will sort and distribute the gifts to children and families in the area through local groups, schools and social services.
Gifts can include anything from educational toys, baby clothes, bath toys, books, including learn to read books (for babies and toddlers) to dolls and action figures, sports equipment and clothing, toiletries (please try to ensure non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers for older children.
The church on 167 High Street, Ramsgate, will be collecting donations of new unwrapped toys and they are in real need of toys for teenage boys and girls
Get involved
People can donate via the Amazon wishlist at https://www.amazon.co.uk/registries/gl/guest-view/YVVW1HWCBIKE?ref_=cm_sw_r_em_ud_ggr-subnav-share_ZDY4M7760AB4F4RWCGJQ_2
Or donations can be made to https://www.justgiving.com/page/salvation-army-ramsgate
A church and charity, The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities.
For more details: https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ramsgate
