Newark Salvation Army overwhelmed with generosity for Christmas toy appeal

Organisers of a Christmas toy appeal have said they feel overwhelmed by the generosity of the public.

Every year Newark Salvation Army runs a toy appeal, accepting donations of toys, chocolate and toiletries to send out to struggling families over Christmas.

Growing year on year, toy appeal co-ordinator, Heather Beedham said: "We've had in excess of 600 children referred to us for gifts.

"Every child under the age of twelve will receive four presents and chocolate, and over twelves are given a gift voucher, chocolate and toiletries.

"We've had hundreds of donations. It's been a really good response from local businesses and individuals.

"On Sunday we had 180 bikers drive from Southwell to Newark bearing gifts, which really helped kickstart the toy appeal."

Donations came in from businesses, churches and schools as well as a donation box in Morrisons.

Money was also donated, allowing the charity to buy items that they are short of.

"I think what is important to get across is that these are donations from people in Newark and surrounding areas knowing that these presents will be going to children from the area as well." said Heather.

"Particularly the agencies and the schools that work so closely with families and are able to identify those that are really in need of the help."

Heather stressed the importance of appeals such as this, saying: "Even before the cost of living crisis really kicked in there was a definite need, with a lot of families on universal credit.

"Now, lots of people are having to choose between eating and heating, therefore the presents come third.

"I for one can't bear the thought of any child not having a present to open on Christmas morning.

"We are overwhelmed, because everyone is struggling financially, everybody's bills have gone up but people still have it within their budgets to give so generously.

"I think it just highlights to us just what a wonderful, generous town we live in and that needs to be celebrated."

Due to the large quantity of donations, the Salvation Army are unable to wrap gifts and so all presents will be distributed unwrapped.

But Heather believes this will have a benefit for parents who will know what their child will receive, whilst also giving them the opportunity to be involved with the process by wrapping gifts at home.

Over the festive period, the Salvation Army will also be sending out food parcels, holding charity carol services and serving a dinner on Christmas Day for those that are on their own or need a hot meal.