Tesco is inviting shoppers to help spread festive cheer by donating toys to children in need this Christmas.
Between 3 November and 15 December, more than 800 large Tesco stores across the UK will collect new and unwrapped toys bought in-store for distribution by local charities to families who might otherwise go without.
Each store has chosen its own local beneficiary, many of which have existing ties with Tesco through year-round community projects.
In Leicester, donations will go to Christ the King Church, which supports families in need over the holidays. Tesco store community champion Pari Thanki said: “We’re pleased to again support the local community by providing toys to those children who will wake up on Christmas morning with very little.
“We already support Christ the King with food donations and look forward to working with them again this year to put a smile on children’s faces.”
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At Newcastle Extra, donations will benefit Pathways 4 All, a North East charity offering leisure activities for children with special needs. Store community champion Joanne Cooper added: “It’s such a special way to spread a little Christmas magic and bring the community together.
“Thanks to the amazing generosity of our customers and colleagues, we can help make sure every child connected with Pathways 4 All has a reason to smile this Christmas.”
Other organisations set to receive support include Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice, Amelia’s Rainbow, and Caister Community Larder, alongside numerous children’s hospital wards, foodbanks, and branches of the Salvation Army.
Claire De Silva, Tesco’s head of communities, said the initiative highlights the retailer’s commitment to helping local families: “Our stores are committed to supporting local children and their communities year-round, and the annual toy donation campaign is a wonderful way to make a difference at Christmas.”
Last year, Tesco customers donated 125,000 toys, and the grocer hopes to surpass that total this festive season.
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