Any charities doing toy or other gift appeals this year?

[pinkksugarmouse]

The title speaks for itself. I have nothing against charity appeals abroad (non evangelical ones) but I would rather give money as I think that’s a better for various reasons.
I’m in the Midlands if that helps.

Do you have a Dunelm nearby? They have a scheme where you can buy a gift for someone in your community

Check local newspaper articles/google/Justgiving to see if anyone is organising any collections. A local girl with her Mum is raising money/collecting gifts for children who have to spend some time in hospital over Christmas. Two hospitals, Alder Hey & Countess of Chester are going to benefit. The girl & her Mum have set up a Justgiving page for donations, & an Amazon Wish list for actual gifts.

Toys we've bought are going to a local Salvation army, thanks to the Christmas bargain thread I've been on all year I have a good stash )

I've also been squirreling away bits for the local food bank, last year they did a shout out for kids selection boxes, chocolates and biscuit boxes as well as bubble bath/shower gel etc. I just put a couple of bits in the trolley each time I shop (I stopped my takeout coffee addiction and money saved goes on food bank bits). I've a sad feeling this winter this will be very much needed.

I noticed yesterday in my local Co-Op a “Winter Appeal” for homeless people. Items wanted were gloves, underwear (new), socks (new), toiletry items etc. Worth keeping an eye out when you shopping for any local appeals.

I make a cash donation to the Salvation Army each Christmas. It's something I do in memory of my df as he did the same every year as they fed and clothed him and his brother whilst their dm didn't. I don't shop and give gifts because I figure they will spend as they see fit anyway.

Chadd are based in the West Midlands , they are a lovely charity who work with Women’s Aid for women and children in the local area if you’re local that might be good for you .