Appeal for Toys to Assist Thousands of Children

The organisers of a festive toy donation campaign are calling on the public to contribute if possible, aiming to provide presents for thousands of children facing severe hardship in north and east London. The Hackney Local Buyers Club is running its 12th annual appeal, though organisers worry contributions may fall due to growing financial pressures on households.

This years initiative targets children living in the Hackney and Haringey boroughs, which rank among the most deprived areas in England. The appeal also supports local independent shops, as donations are spent with nearby traders.

The distributed gifts are given through local councils, primarily reaching children in care or those living in temporary housing. Jenna Fansa, co-founder of the Winter Toy Appeal, said she started the project because it seemed unfair that some children went without presents at Christmas due to poverty. "Since its inception, we have provided 37,000 gifts, usually between 3,000 and 5,000 each year," she said.

Ms Fansa added that the community has traditionally "rallied around" the appeal, but this year has seen a slower start. "Weve noticed a real impact, and as a result, fewer children may receive gifts. We truly need everyone to give what they can," she stressed. Items in high demand include new craft kits, remote-controlled cars, soft toys, and LEGO sets.

Co-founder Vicky Bibiris emphasised that the goal is to make sure every child has a new toy on Christmas morning. "Even a small purchase can bring joy to a child who might otherwise miss out," she said.

There are several ways to support the Winter Toy Appeal:

• Purchase a toy from an Amazon wishlist, which will be sent to Hackney Council for distribution.
• Make a financial donation through a GoFundMe page.
• Buy a discounted toy from participating local retailers.
• Drop off a toy in person at the appeals storage hub.

The Local Buyers Club, which runs the appeal, is a membership group promoting shopping at independent businesses with exclusive offers. Funds raised through GoFundMe will be spent at participating stores, including Stoke Newington Toys & Books, The Toy Box Victoria Park, Soup Dragon in Crouch End, and Know and Love in Stoke Newington.

Author: Sophia Brooks