As the festive season approaches, many families across the borough are preparing for joyful celebrations. But, the thrill of unwrapping a gift from under the tree is a moment we can too often take for granted.
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Present Appeal is once again calling on the community to help ensure that no child goes without, this Christmas. It is collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys and gifts to distribute to families who are struggling to make ends meet.
Chanelle McPherson-Bradshaw is the community centre manager at The Salvation Army in Leeland Road, West Ealing. She said: “We have been overcome by the generosity of residents, schools and local businesses every year we have run the appeal, and people have been just as giving this year.”
But, the reality is that there are lots of families in need and any further donations would be very gratefully received.
‘Feel the joy’
“We want everyone in the borough to feel the joy of Christmas,” Chanelle added.
“And for those struggling families that do not celebrate Christmas, it’s a chance to put aside a gift for another special moment.”
The appeal is open to anyone who wishes to contribute, and even a small gift can bring joy to a child who might otherwise go without.
Donations can be taken to The Salvation Army centre in Leeland Road up until 17 December.
You can give items suitable for children of all ages – from baby toys and books to puzzles, games, and gift vouchers for teens.
Alternatively, you can donate money to the appeal online.
‘True spirit of Christmas’
The Around Ealing team took 2 big bags of goodies down to the centre, paid for by donations from council staff, to help play our part.
Councillor Steve Donnelly, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for inclusive economy is due to be delivering more donations to the appeal from council staff this week. He said: “I am very happy to lend my support to this great initiative. It speaks to the true spirit of Christmas, bringing joy to children and showing the strength of our community.’’
How to help:
- donate a new, unwrapped toy or gift
- make a financial donation online
- spread the word to others
The deadline for donations is 17 December, so there’s still time to make a difference. For more information, go to The Salvation Army website.
How does it work?
Families in need will receive a referral and this will allow them to book a slot to visit the Salvation Army up until 19 December. Referrals are usuallymade by Ealing Council, health visitors, schools and other partner organisations.
The donations will be set up just like a shop, so parents and carers can browse the gifts and choose what they’d like to select for their loved ones.
Staff and volunteers will be running a wrapping station too, so the gift can go home all ready to open on the big day.
