2025 is the 35th anniversary of ELBA’s Toy Appeal. See some of the wonderful profiles of our community partners below.
We run creative clubs for adults with learning disabilities and disadvantaged local children. Our aim is to build confidence through creativity, love and support. We work closely with local families to enrich lives.
Toy Appeal has a massive effect on the children and families. This may be the only gift a child will get and so it means so much. We also invite parents who are so devastated because they cannot afford nice things for their child to come in, choose an amazing gift, wrap it here and at Christmas they have a great gift to give their child.
Three words:
Life changing, Amazing, Generous
Aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Islington, especially those who are vulnerable and isolated. Working with residents, we seek to find solutions to the issues which make life difficult, strengthen communities to do more for themselves and enable people to improve their life chances. By identifying people who may be at risk, we provide early support to prevent the need for later crisis interventions.
Toy Appeal gives our organisation a massive boost: it is so heartening that businesses and individuals are so generous and care about others in London; and the difference it makes to the children and families themselves, most of whom toys are a luxury and so to be given something at Christmas is truly special.
Three words:
Generous, Giving, Community-building
Youth charity Barking and Dagenham Youth Dance (BDYD) is more than a dance group, it’s a source of strength and pride for the community. Through weekly classes and enriching activities, BDYD empowers young people aged 5-21 to find their rhythm, develop confidence and express creativity. It has served 10,000 young people and counting.
Toy Appeal has been a huge support for our children, young people and their families. Being able to give each BDYD member a free toy helps our participants gain a sense of belonging, inclusion and connection.
Three words:
Uplifting, Meaningful, Caring
Hanley Crouch Community Association (HCCA), based in Islington and established in 1972, delivers a wide range of services and activities, including an afterschool club, community nursery, drop-in sessions for children and adults with special needs, a foodbank, and various other essential community services and activities.
With the rising cost of living, we have seen a notable increase in the number of families accessing our foodbank and seeking additional support. Toy Appeal not only eases this financial strain but also creates moments of genuine joy. Children are always incredibly excited to receive their gifts; the smiles on their faces are priceless and bring a sense of magic back into their lives. For parents, the Appeal provides reassurance and dignity, lifting the emotional and financial burden that often accompanies the festive season.
Three words:
Amazing, Exciting, Grateful
