Toy appeal aims to help thousands of children

"The Hackney Local Buyers Club is running its 12th annual appeal, but fear donations will drop due to increased pressures on household budgets. This year, the project aims to provide new gifts to children living in the boroughs of Hackney and Haringey, which are among the most deprived in England. Organisers say the appeal also helps support independent businesses in the area, as any money donated will be spent with local traders."

"The gifts are distributed by local councils, usually to children in care or those in temporary accommodation. Jenna Fansa, co-founder of the Winter Toy Appeal said she originally set it up because it felt unfair that some children did not get presents at Christmas due to living in poverty. "It's a very special thing," she said. "Since it started we've given out 37,000 gifts to children - typically 3-5,000 each year.""

"Ms Fansa said that since the appeal began, the community had "rallied around" to support it. However, this year's appeal got off to a "slow start" she said. "We've definitely noticed an impact on the appeal and the knock on effect of that is that we will reach fewer children, so we really do need people to give what they can". Brand new craft sets, remote controlled cars, soft toys, lego are especially helpful, she said."

Organisers run the 12th annual Winter Toy Appeal to provide new gifts to children living in extreme hardship in Hackney and Haringey. Donations are at risk due to rising household budget pressures and a slow start to this year's campaign. The appeal has delivered 37,000 gifts overall, typically 3–5,000 annually, and channels funds to local traders to support independent businesses. Local councils distribute gifts to children in care or those in temporary accommodation. Appeal leaders urge donations of brand new toys such as craft sets, remote-controlled cars, soft toys and lego to ensure children receive presents at Christmas.

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