The Council is excited to announce the launch of its annual Toy Drive for 2024.
The Toy Drive, now in its eleventh year, has been a tremendous success, with over 35,800 donations made, and reaching 15,275 children and young people in the past decade. This year, we aim to increase our efforts to reach even more children and young people who might not receive a gift without the generosity and support of our community.
The cherished scheme will run from today until Friday 13 December 2024. We ask for donations of new, unwrapped gifts, once they are in the 'elves' workshop they will be sorted and wrapped by our dedicated team of volunteers, ensuring that every child receives a special present in time for the holidays.
Cllr Laurie Burton, cabinet member for children, young people, and SEND, said: "Ho-ho, here we go - The Toy Drive is back and ready to spread joy once again! It's heartwarming to witness the incredible generosity of our community throughout the years. It's also wonderful to be supporting local toy shops, making Christmas magical for everyone.
"A huge thank you to everyone who has donated in the past. We're calling on your kindness once more to contribute to the Toy Drive 2024. Your donations will help create a special Christmas for vulnerable children and young people in our City."
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
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.