Churches in Swindon will, for the 10th year, be running a Christmas toy appeal with the aim of bringing a little hope and happiness to local families* living in desperate need, so they can have presents to wake up to on Christmas morning.

Last year, over 420 families chose presents for over 1,040 referred children. This year, it's looking to be the busiest year ever with new organisations and schools making referrals and getting involved.

We're asking individuals, groups, and organisations for donations of new toys to suit ages 0-17.

Please drop any donations off at one of the donation points from Monday 02 - Monday 30 November.

Please don't wrap your donated gifts, but you're welcome to donate wrapping paper and sellotape.

You can also buy a present online (i.e. from Amazon) and have it delivered straight to the Bible Society (address in the donation points below).

If you'd like to make a financial donation instead, you can do so by clicking here.

We also need some volunteers to help make it all happen. If you're up for spending a few hours helping to sort presents out, please head here or email us at toyappeal@gcswindon.org.uk

*All families will be nominated by social workers, schools, churches, and support organisations across Swindon.

We want to bless every child with a new gift this Christmas, so we're unable to take used or second-hand items.

Here's a list of suggestions for different ages:

Children (0-12)

• Dolls and action figures - to encourage imaginative play and help children to learn nurturing skills and build empathy. This also includes soft toys, such as Squishmallows, teddy bears, etc.
• Learning / educational toys - including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) toys.
• Construction toys - including magnetic toys, such as Magna-tiles and Smart Max, to Duplo, Lego, etc.
• Cars and transport - including Hot Wheels, transporters, remote control, garages, etc.
• Kids' art and craft - this could include anything from Playdoh and slime to stationery, pens, crayons, and science kits, or products such as baking and gardening kits.
• Pretend play toys - these are excellent for developing storytelling skills and include role play costumes, play kitchen items, etc.
• Games, puzzles, and books - including board games, jigsaws, tabletop arcade games, etc.
• Sports items - particularly footballs, NERF guns, etc.
• Baby items - including baby clothes, rattles, etc.

Teenagers (13-17)

• Make-up and toiletries - including lip balms, and items for hair and nails.
• Electronic gadgets - including LED strip lights, ring lights for TikTok, wireless ear-buds, LED glitter lamps, phone accessories, etc.
• Books, games, and puzzles - those aimed at teenagers rather than younger children.
• Sports items - such as footballs, etc.
• Gift vouchers.

Telephone: 07544 540 476

Email: toyappeal@gcswindon.org.uk

Facebook: Swindontoyappeal