Help us to make Christmas merry
It may only be the first week in November but here at the Advertiser that means it’s time to launch our popular Christmas Toy Appeal!
That’s right, our team of little elves are gearing up for what we hope is another hugely successful year in terms of donations in a bid to make the county’s underprivileged youngsters smile this Christmas time.
And this year there are some major changes to our appeal as we are delighted to announce our new partnership with the Hamilton branch of The Salvation Army.
Based on the town’s Burnblea Street, The Salvation Army were more than happy to come on board as toy appeal partners.
The kind-hearted staff and volunteers have pledged to help with Christmas collections, organising, storage and more.
Our second big change this year is that we are now asking for brand new toys and gifts only, due to health and safety regulations.
So if you wish to help make our toy appeal another huge success then all you need to do is donate a new toy or gift for children of all age groups.
Businesses and shops can also help by providing left-over stock, and we also require wrapping paper, batteries and sticky tape.
Then, working in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Council’s social work services, the toys and gifts will de distributed to the county’s neediest families in time for December 25 – guaranteeing to make hundreds of children smile this Christmas day.
Advertiser editor Robert Mitchell said: “The toy appeal is always a huge success and every year we are completely overwhelmed at the generosity of our readers, businesses, churches and organisations who all get behind this very worthwhile campaign.
“Remember, every little helps, and we’ll gladly take any new donations such as make-up kits, colouring-in books and crayons, dolls, toy cars, construction sets, jigsaws, cuddly teddies and more.
“Cash donations or gift vouchers are also warmly welcomed.”
Advertiser reporter Leona Greenan, who co-ordinates the appeal, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to have the support of the Salvation Army and can not thank them enough for coming on board.
“Already we’ve had a number of companies get in touch to pledge help and donations, and we have some fab ideas and announcements over the coming weeks.”
Donations can be handed in to the Advertiser Office, Press Buildings, Campbell Street, Hamilton on weekdays 9am to 1pm, or at The Salvation Army Church hall on Burnblea Street, Hamilton, weekdays from 10am to 12pm.
In Larkhall the Happy Feet Nursery, on 47-49 Claude Street, have kindly offered to be a drop-off point.