Council asks for Christmas gifts
Donations to be left at community centre
An appeal for toys and gifts for families struggling to afford presents has been launched – with a dropoff point in Motherwell
North Lanarkshire Council, in conjunction with Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire and local community groups, are calling for donations of new or ‘as new’ toys and gifts, suitable from tots to teenagers.
The much-needed gifts will assist families who find the festive season challenging.
Last year, around 600 families and 1500 children across North Lanarkshire benefitted from thousands of donations received through the council appeal.
Depute leader of the council, Councillor Paul Kelly, said, “Once again, we’re looking for help to spread the true spirit of Christmas with our ‘Give a Festive Gift’ appeal following the overwhelming support from communities last year.
“When most people look forward to fun-filled days at Christmas, for others, the strain of the festive season can be a time of real pressure and hardship, with some families in North Lanarkshire struggling to afford presents.
“We are asking for your help by donating unwrapped new or ‘as-new’ gifts and toys that are suitable for children and young people – from tots to teenagers. Please do what you can to help make our young people smile this year by giving a festive gift.”
The council are specifically looking for toys and gifts such as board games, character and superhero toys, arts and crafts, toy cars, bikes and scooters, dolls and video games. They will be separating donations into age groups from babies, toddlers, children and teenagers. Donations for teenagers are particularly appreciated, such as new toiletries, make-up or hair products. For safety reasons electrical or battery goods or fidget spinners can’t be accepted. Please note that gifts should be unwrapped.
Donations can be left at Forgewood Community Centre, on Motherwell’s Dinmont Crescent, on Saturday, December 8, between 3pm and 7pm.