Central England Co-op customers and members got into the festive spirit by donating over 12,000 presents for kids this Christmas.
As part of the retailer’s first ever Christmas Toybox Appeal, items were dropped off at special donation points located in all 244 stores across 16 counties or handed over to Santa’s elves as the Co-op Christmas lorry stopped off at 13 locations across the country during November.
In just four weeks, customers and members dropped off everything from bikes to giant unicorns.
The presents were then shared out via local charities, community groups and food banks as well as major hospitals and hospices who handed them to as many children as possible to ensure they have something to open on Christmas day.
“On behalf of everyone involved with our society, I want to say a big thank you to every customer, member and colleague who helped make our first ever Christmas Toybox Appeal a major success,” Central England Co-op chief executive Debbie Robinson said.
“Kind-hearted people have donated over 12,000 brand new presents and stocking fillers that are now going to bring smiles to the faces of thousands of youngsters up and down the country as they wake up on Christmas morning.”
Items donated included puzzles, games, soft toys, outdoor toys, books, dolls/figures, CDs/DVDs and art materials.
Rainbows Head of Organisational Giving Kate Golding said: “On behalf of everyone at Rainbows, I would like to say the biggest thank you to all those who have donated to this very special appeal.
“People are so kind and we are very grateful for all of the toys that will benefit the children, young people and their siblings here at Rainbows.”
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