Over 1200 gifts donated for Christmas Toy appeal

An estimated 1,245 presents are being given to struggling families in the local area, thanks to the generosity of Lincolnshire Co-op travel customers and colleagues.

Holidaymakers donated £1 to Travel’s Toy Bank when booking their breaks, raising £11,906 throughout the year.

These funds were used to buy 982 gifts and toys, which have been distributed to children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, who otherwise may not receive anything this Christmas.

Throughout November, the society’s travel branches have also accepted 263 donations of new gifts and toys. Donated items include board games, cuddly toys, sports equipment, and toiletries to suit ages 0-16.

Families facing difficulty will be able to receive gifts through a total of 12 local groups and charities across Lincolnshire Co-op’s trading area.

Many Lincolnshire Co-op colleagues have volunteered over the festive period to help wrap and distribute donated gifts. Volunteers gathered in Horncastle Community Centre to ensure that presents were wrapped and ready for local charity, Barnardo’s, to distribute.

Rebecca Harris, Children's Services Manager at Barnardo’s said: “The toys and gifts that have been donated are going to make a huge difference to the teenagers and young people that we offer support to.

“It will help them feel loved, cared for and welcome within their communities, which is so important at this time of year. We cannot thank everyone at Lincolnshire Co-op enough for all their support.”

Lincolnshire Co-op’s Travel Group Manager Wayne Dennett said: “It’s been heart-warming to see so many of our customers and colleagues come together to ensure that young people in our local communities have the opportunity to unwrap a gift this Christmas.

“We cannot thank everyone enough for getting involved. From chipping in £1 when booking holidays, to donating toys to the travel branch collection points and volunteering your time to wrapping gifts, you’ve contributed to an incredible cause and made a hugely positive impact on many vulnerable families.”