Salvation Army church leader Major Alan Hill said: “Helping a parent provide a gift for their child is more than just financial support, it brings the joy of Christmas into their home. We have seen the devastating effect of the cost of living crisis. People are really struggling and so we are doing what we can to relieve the pressure this Christmas.
“The Salvation Army’s present appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have nothing. We have been humbled by the public’s generosity over the years and hope this year our appeal will be able to bring some comfort and joy to people who are struggling the most.”
Alan said he would be particularly grateful for donations for older children.
He explained: “Older children tend to get unintentionally forgotten about and every year we have to go out and buy things for them. When we sort our donations, we know what age group we’re dealing with and it would be great to have things for children for those age 12 and above.”
The church on New Street will be collecting donations of new unwrapped toys until 15 December.
The Salvation Army will sort and distribute the gifts to children and families in the area through local groups, schools and social services.
Gifts can include anything from educational toys, baby clothes, bath toys, books to sports equipment and clothing, toiletries (please try to ensure non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers for older children.
Alan will be speaking at the Benefice Toy Service at St Mary’s Church on 3 December where donations can also be bought.
Also next month, The Salvation Army is hosting a carol service on 17 December at 3pm. On Christmas Day, they are hosting lunch. To register, call Alan on 07562 007125.
A church and charity, The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities. To help support The Salvation Army’s year-round work please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/donate
For more information about the Christmas Present Appeal and ideas about gifts, see our website: https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/christmas-present-appeal
For more information on Woodbridge Salvation Army, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/woodbridge
