Newark Palace Theatre seeks public help spreading Christmas joy with donations for Palace Presents scheme
Christmas should be the happiest time of year, but for some, especially in this cost-of-living crisis, it can be difficult to celebrate.
Newark Palace Theatre is asking theatre-goers for their help by donating to the Palace Presents scheme which has seen hundreds of gifts, worth thousands of pounds, donated to local charities since it was launched in 2020.
This year, some local schools will also be involved alongside six charities, including; Newark Emmaus Trust, Newark Women’s Aid, HUG – Help Us Grieve, Think Children, YMCA Newark and Sherwood and Beaumond House.
All donations of new and unused gifts are appreciated, but some charities have offered suggestions for presents which are most needed by the people they help. These include:
- Food like chocolate and biscuits tins
- Beauty and personal care items including moisturiser, body wash, shampoo, lip balms, deodorants and soap
- Toys and games such as colouring books for both adults and children, play dough, board games, fidget toys, hand puppets, puzzles and craft supplies
- Clothing like scarves, hats, socks, gloves, fluffy socks
- Miscellaneous items including covered hot water bottles, Christmas mugs, writing books and journals, sensory items, headphones and useful household items for setting up a home.
Councillor Rhona Holloway, portfolio holder for economic development and visitors at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Our team at the Palace Theatre always love seeing the happy, smiling faces of everyone coming to enjoy panto and we hope that some visitors to Cinderella this year will be inspired to spread that joy to others through the Palace Presents scheme.
“We know that the vast majority of our theatregoers will be feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis in some way so we’re more appreciative than ever to those who are able to help."
As a sign of appreciation, free entry to the National Civil War Centre will be offered to anyone who donates, plus a guest valid throughout January.
Gifts can be dropped off at the Palace Theatre Newark box office from Wednesday November 30 to Saturday December 17.
Donations should be wrapped and have a removable label stating which items are enclosed along with any gender suitability and age range.
For more information, visit the Newark Palace Theatre website and follow them on Facebook.
