THE community of Salisbury is needed to get behind this year’s Great Big Salisbury Christmas Toy Appeal .

The appeal, which was first started last year and spearheaded by Louise McConnell, of ReQuire Consultancy in Salisbury, proved such a success that it has been launched again to bring Christmas to children who might miss out on the festivities.

It launches today (Thursday November 18). Speaking of the launch, Louise said: “It is amazing. I am pleased we made the decision to do it again this year. We’re just hoping we can replicate the success this year.”

Members of the public are being urged to purchase toys or make a donation on the appeal’s fundraising page.

Businesses are also being asked to get behind the appeal by collecting toys from staff and customers.

“I just really want the general public to get behind it,” adds Louise, who says so many people stepped up to help the appeal last year.

“There’s an overwhelming sense of not wanting to let the children down this year. This is why we need not just businesses but need the public behind us. It is the only way to ensure the same amount of children and hopefully more children receive gifts this year.”

Last year, the appeal purchased and delivered more than 600 new toys and stocking fillers, which were delivered to more than 200 individual children.

It is estimated that in excess of 400 children who would not have normally received anything last year had at least two Christmas presents and stocking fillers delivered in a Santa’s sack.

Louise says it was “so special” being able to help local families.

The entire Amazon wish list was also purchased for Little Folly’s Children Centre in Salisbury. And gifts were given to the women’s refuge as well as local charities - a van full of toys for children visiting loved ones on Christmas day was brought to Salisbury Hospice.

The main message Louise wants to get across to the community of Salisbury is that “we need your help”.

Businesses including 1st Self Access Storage, Nationwide, Smyths Toys, Love Salisbury, Spire Printing and Stonehenge Plumbing and Heating as well as Wyvern St Edmund’s School.

To donate visit: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/greatbigtoyappeal.

Toys can also be ordered online and delivered to 1st Self Access Storage in Salisbury.

The aim is to distribute the gifts on December 17 and 18 so people are asked to donations in before that date.

 

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