uring the festive season most of us start to think of what’s on the list for Christmas, ticking off gifts for family and friends.

Here at ELBA, the festive season also means the launch of the annual Toy Appeal – an initiative that has been running for many years, offering companies and employees a chance to spare a thought, and a gift, for children in the local community.

Each festive season, we organise for gifts to be bought, donated, sorted and delivered to children and young people in East London, Islington and beyond. Each year, over £100,000 worth of gifts are donated and the demand from community partners is increasing as more families face financial uncertainty. It is not right that in some parts of East London, over 50% of children live in poverty. We believe that every child deserves to feel the joy of opening a present at the end of the year.

The Toy Appeal is a key part of our work building the connection between businesses and the community. With the generous support of participating companies and employees, we provide a moment of festive cheer and happiness to many children and families across London.

How it works: There are a number of different ways to donate. The easiest way is via our online Amazon and John Lewis wish lists making the process simple and ensuring all gifts are of a similar value. You can also run a toy drive with your colleagues and then drop the gifts to our grotto. Alternatively, you can donate money or fundraise through justgiving.com/campaign/elbatoyappeal2023.

To find out more, please email info@elba-1.org.uk or call 020 7068 6960

See our helpful Toy Appeal Guidelines, toy-buying advice and FAQs here.