Tesco Superstore, Ballymena, are once again collecting toys to donate to the Salvation Army Christmas Present Appeal.
The partnership with the Salvation Army was initially trialled during the first Christmas of the Covid-19 pandemic and proved a fantastic success, and helped many families in the community.
With the need greater than ever, you can help spread the joy of Christmas to families whose children would otherwise not receive a gift. This year, the number of families requesting help is expected to rise as a result of the cost of living crisis.
Ronny McFall, Community Champion at Tesco Superstore Ballymena commented:
"During the first Christmas of Covid-19, Tesco trialled a Christmas donation point outside stores. Now it's back at selected stores across Northern Ireland.
"We are lucky to have a collection point here at the Ballymena store, with the Salvation Army distributing donations in our local community this Christmas!
"We are asking for new toys only, and please remember teenage children and young adults (16 to 18 years old). The last day of the collection in Ballymena will be 16th December."
Ronny added:
"These next few years at Christmas will be some of the toughest a generation will have experienced. Any donations will be greatly appreciated and will make a massive difference to families in need at this special time of the year."
Suggested Gift List for Children and Young People
Salvation Army believe every child deserves a new gift at Christmas so used second hand items are not accepted for the Christmas Present Appeal.
0-3 years: dolls, teddy bears, cot mobiles, baby clothes, bath toys, CDs of suitable music and nursery rhymes, puzzles
3-5: dolls and action figures, cars, lorries, DVDs and CDs (music and nursery rhymes), colouring sets, pencils, crayons, books, puzzles
5-9: educational games & toys, stationery (colouring sets, pencils, crayons, school sets), CDs & family friendly DVDs, books, puzzles, wordsearch, crosswords
9-12: games and toys, stationery, DVDs, books, t-shirts, hair accessories, gloves, scarves, hats
13-16: books, make-up and toiletries (please try to ensure non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats, t-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers
Over the years, millions of children and young people have benefited from gifts donated to The Salvation Army.
By giving a gift to the Christmas Present Appeal you can make a real difference in someone’s life at Christmas.
The Christmas Present Appeal collection point is positioned at the entrance to Tesco Superstore Ballymena.