A TOY DONATION appeal has been launched by NewStarts to ensure every child across Bromsgrove, Rubery and Frankley has a present to open on Christmas morning.
The campaign asks for donations of toys and gifts for a variety of ages which will be distributed by the charity.
A number of donation points have been set up, including NewStarts in Bromsgrove and Frankley, Lidl in Bromsgrove and NSC Electrical Contractors on the Aston Fields Industrial Estate.
Marion Kenyon, NewStarts’ chief executive, told the Standard: “Christmas is a magical time of year but for some children and families who are struggling in this current economic climate with extra expense and outgoings, it can be a time of dread.
“We want the community to come together and make sure every child in Bromsgrove, Rubery and Frankley has the best possible Christmas they can have.
“This is the season of goodwill, after all, and we know how much everyone in our areas love Christmas and want it to be the wonderful time of the year it should be.”
Several fundraising events have been organised, including a Christmas party for families on December 19 at The Ladybird Inn.
The Ladybird Festive Knees Up will feature music from DJ Ryan Fessey, a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, a silent auction, hot food and, of course, Father Christmas in his grotto.
The party’s organiser Lee Bennett said with some events, one parent always had to stay at home and look after the child or children so they decided to make it a family event which everyone could attend.
A total of £780 has already been raised by the events, with another £1,000 in the JustGiving account and £1,400 in a separate charity account.
Lee, a regular at The Ladybird, said: “Holding this event started as a small idea but it has completely snowballed and it is all for a such a worthwhile cause.”
Lee was inspired by Jane Tingle who has previously collected toys for NewStarts’ annual collection.
“After speaking to her, I decided I really wanted to do something to help and here we are.”
Tickets for the Festive Knees Up are £5 for adults and children go free.
Head to the Ladybird Inn Facebook page at: facebook.com/TheLadybirdInn for more information and tickets.
For more on NewStarts and the Christmas toy campaign, visit the charity’s Facebook page.
