Spreading holiday joy to children in need with Toy Drive

December 10, 2024

The Toy Drive workshop is in full swing getting ready to provide some Christmas joy for vulnerable children and young people across the City.

Council elves have been hard at work coordinating and wrapping gifts for the Toy Drive. As always, our goal is to give a little bit of Christmas magic to as many children and young people as possible.

Thank you to everyone who has already donated. Remember, anyone still wishing to donate needs to do so by Friday 13 December. We are grateful for all donations made; however, we are specifically in need of gifts for 12 years and above.

If you want to get involved, you can donate:

New toys, suitable for girls, boys and babies up to the age of 17

Vouchers for toys or days out

Selection packs

Pens, pencils and colouring books

Toiletry sets

If batteries are needed for the toys, please include them.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, leader of the Council, said: “I am thrilled to see the Toy Drive in full swing. The generosity of our community never ceases to amaze me, and we can make this Christmas truly special for these children and young people. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated so far. While every donation is appreciated, we are in specific need of gifts for children aged 12 years and older, so please consider this if you plan to make a donation this year.”

You can purchase gifts directly from Argosy Toys or Toys ‘n’ Tuck in store and council elves will collect the gifts. You can also purchase gifts online from www.argosytoys.co.uk and select ‘Toy Drive’ as an option for delivery, or www.toysntuck.co.uk and select ‘Southend Toy Drive’ to donate.

Alternatively, you can deliver your donation directly to the Civic Centre or The Forum by Friday 13 December.

Any questions please call 01702 215841 or email toydrive@southend.gov.uk.