Council plan to give joy of toys

An appeal to collect and deliver toys to families who struggle to afford the cost of Christmas is being spearheaded by North Lanarkshire Council.

In conjunction with Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire, the local authority is appealing to its staff and residents to: “Give a toy – spread the joy”, as part of a toys giveaway tour across the region.

The idea is the brainchild of community volunteer Martine Nolan, who has carried out an appeal over the past couple of years to help around 400 families with muchneeded toys.

Martine approached council depute leader Councillor Paul Kelly for help to make the toy appeal even bigger and better this year, resulting in the council-wide toy drop.

Mr Kelly said: “For many children in our community, this time of year is sometimes not an easy or happy time, with presents being a luxury some families just can’t afford.

“We are looking for the support of the public to help us spread the true spirit of the season and give a gift to a child who may not otherwise receive anything.”

Martine added: “We’ve really made a difference to the lives of children with our previous appeals.

“And it’s a wonderful idea for the council to take the appeal on board.

“We’ve arranged drop-off days at venues across North Lanarkshire for people to deposit toys and I’m sure people will take the time to look out suitable items for the giveaway.”

Toys can be dropped off at Coatbridge’s King’s Church this Friday and Sunday and next Tuesday, along with Tuesdays, December 5 and 12, Fridays, December 1 and 8, and Sundays, December 3 and 10; the Tuesday and Friday slots are between 10am and 12pm with the Sunday collections from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.

There will also be a drop-off slot at the @Home Centre in Airdrie on Monday, December 11, from 9am to 7pm.

● Donated toys should be brand new or pre-loved in good condition, and suitable for ages zero to18. Toys should be unwrapped. For safety reasons, electrical or battery goods or fidget spinners cannot be accepted.

Spreading joy (Back, L-R) Councillor Kelly, Kamil Tomzik from Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire, Des Murray, assistant chief executive of enterprise and housing resources, and Councillor Frank McNally, convener of education, join Provost Jean Jones...