Christmas is fast approaching and once again Plus Dane Housing, the “Chronicle”, Boots on Barn Road, Congleton Town Council and members of the local branch of the NSPCC are joining forces to run the successful annual NSPCC Congleton Christmas toy appeal.
The initiative aims to deliver gifts to local children most in need, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of the festive season.
The organisers are encouraging local residents to dig deep and donate a new toy or suitable gift for a child or teenager.
Donations can be dropped off at several locations until Monday, 16th December:
- Congleton Information Centre, inside the town hall;
- “Chronicle” Office on Market Square;
- Boots on Barn Road, and
- Plus Dane Offices, Worral Street (Thursdays only, 10am–2pm).
Toys are carefully sorted by Plus Dane volunteers to ensure that age- and gender-appropriate gifts are provided to parents and carers of children identified as in need of support.
To help with the process, people are asked not to wrap the gifts, which allows for proper sorting and distribution. This also ensures that families receiving the donations can clearly identify what they are giving to their children.
Congleton town mayor Coun Kay Wesley urged the community to get involved, saying: “The annual NSPCC toy appeal is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our town.
“Every gift donated brings a little magic to children who need it most, and I encourage everyone who can to contribute to this worthy cause.
“Last year, more than 500 toys were donated — let’s see if we can beat that this year!”
Many of the referrals come from Plus Dane staff, who deal with families directly and know the issues they face – some families have to juggle paying their rent with buying gifts for their children.
This year the demand for support is expected to be greater than ever as more families struggle to meet basic costs.
The NSPCC said it was particularly in need of educational toys, games, stationery and treats for young teenagers.
The appeal also welcomes donations of cash, 100% of which will be given to support the NSPCC Childline.
Cash donations can be dropped into the “Chronicle” reception or Congleton Information Centre, marked “NSPCC”.
Over the holiday season, Childline faces its busiest time of year, with a child contacting the service nearly every two minutes.
Many of these children are dealing with heartbreaking situations, from being left alone to enduring abuse or the effects of family breakdowns.
A local NSPCC spokesperson highlighted the critical need for support. “Last year, more than 7,000 children in distress reached out to Childline over Christmas and New Year.
“Tragically, we were unable to answer 600 calls due to limited capacity. Every contribution — whether a toy or a donation — helps us provide the support these children so desperately need.”
