It’s Beginning To Look a Lot Like The ELBA & BIG Alliance Toy Appeal 2023
It’s beginning to look a lot like the ELBA & BIG Alliance Toy Appeal 2023
Written by Stanley Shepherd, Community Development Senior Project Manager, Challenge:ELBA
It’s that time again! We are thrilled to announce that ELBA & BIG Alliances annual Toy Appeal is on the horizon. This follows on from a very successful Toy Appeal 2022, where over 90 companies donated 17,007 toys between them, which were then distributed to over 105 community organisations in East London and Islington. These toys were given to children most in need, some of which are fleeing domestic violence, living in emergency temporary accommodation, refugees, and children with disabilities and additional needs.
Following the 2022 Toy Appeal, Rochelle McIntyre from Marjory Kinnon School said:
“I cannot thank you enough for the huge benefit ELBA has given to our students and their families. This will really boost the morale of our families and help with the financial constraints during this economic climate. As a special needs school, there were enough toys to support all ages and abilities.”
With many families facing hardships, we want every child to find comfort and delight throughout the festive season. There will be a variety of ways to get involved in the Toy Appeal this year, including:
- Monetary donations
- Ordering toys online
- Volunteering your time to pick and pack gifts
- Running an office collection
- Drop-in donations to our Toy Appeal Grotto
Further details on how to donate will be sent out in October.
The overwhelming generosity of everyone who participates is something that we are keen to replicate and build upon, to help ease the pressure and stress from parents who are struggling financially and to make this festive period a special one.
In addition to the Toy Appeal, the Challenge team at ELBA will be launching Festive Team Challenge opportunities to support our community partners in planning their festive activities. This includes events at community centres; food banks; primary schools; adventure playgrounds and much more. Activities will include supporting festive celebrations, providing a helpful hand in the Toy Appeal Grotto and writing letters from Santa that will be provided with gifts.
For more information, please contact Stanley Shepherd: stanley.shepherd@elba-1.org.uk and Lauren Watson: lauren.watson@elba-1.org.uk.
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