Charities are urgently calling for toy donations to help families this Christmas, saying they’re the second-most needed items over the festive period.
It’s easy to get carried away at Christmas, with a never-ending to-do list revolving around shopping, cooking and cleaning – and that’s not even factoring in the parties and catch-ups you somehow have to squeeze in.
But charities are urging people not to forget about those in need at this time of year, calling on people to donate toys to Lidl’s Toy Banks.
The toy banks – which saw more than 80,000 toys being donated last year – serve as a support for families facing a difficult Christmas, and work in partnership with Neighbourly, an award-winning giving platform that connects companies with local causes.
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New research commissioned by Lidl found that over three-quarters of the nation (81 percent) aren’t aware that toys are the second-most needed items by charities at Christmas, as just 2 percent of UK adults most associate donation banks with toys.
As such, Lidl and Neighbourly are asking people to come forward with new and unopened toys so that the magic of Christmas can be shared with others.
They’re especially looking for gifts for those aged 11-18, as this age group emerged as a bit of a gap in last year’s efforts.
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The research also found that 90 percent of Neighbourly’s charity network say they’re in need of presents for older kids and teens, even if respondents admitted they found those in that bracket hardest to buy for.
Musician Professor Green, who has teamed up with Lidl’s Toy Bank this year, said: “As a father myself, I understand the magic of seeing your child receive a present on Christmas Day – so it’s heart-breaking to think some are having to make that decision.
“So, if you’re able to donate, I’m asking you to please gift anything you can spare, big or small, to the toy bank at your local Lidl this year.”
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Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “Lidl’s Toy Bank was crucial in delivering much needed support to our community network last year, and at a time of an increased cost of living, more families will be under financial strain that leads to heart-breaking decisions around what can be provided this Christmas.
"Every donation can make the difference as to whether a child opens a present on Christmas Day.
“We are particularly asking for presents for aged between 11-18 after a gap emerged in donations last year. Donations suitable for a wide age range include games, books, arts & crafts, tech gadgets such as headphones, sports items such as footballs and rackets, as well as make up and accessories.”
Lidl’s Toy Bank will be accepting donations until Saturday 16 December, when all the toys will be collected for distribution nationwide in local communities.
Jess Hardiman