Santa in appeal for Christmas treats

DONATE A GIFT TO HELP MAKE A CHILD IN NEED SMILE

Children from Sunningdale School helped to launch the Sunderland Echo Toy Appeal asking you to donate a gift to help make Christmas extra special this year for someone in need.

The appeal is run in partnership with Wearside charity Hope 4 Kidz, which each year hosts a big Christmas party for disadvantaged and special needs youngsters across the North East at Illusions nightclub, in Sunderland.

To help make the free event on Sunday, December 3, extra special we are also appealing for selection boxes, which Santa will give to the children before they head home .

Viv Wats, of Hope4Kidz, said: “Santa’s Christmas party is one of the most popular events of the year because it gives the children something to look forward to and a chance to escape their circumstances. Last year, more than 400 children attended and we look forward to seeing as many again this year.”

To attend the party or to be considered for a gift donation, contact Hope4Kidz, on 0191 534 7788, email vivien.watts@hope4kidz.org. uk or log on to www.hope4kidz.org.uk.

Donations to the appeal can be made at one of our designated drop-off points: Tesco in The Bridges; Morrisons, Seaburn; Morrisons, Doxford Park; Sainsbury’s, Wessington Way; Sainsbury’s, Silksworth; Sainsbury’s, Washington, Sainsbury’s, Fulwell; Virgin Money, Fawcett Street, Virgin Money, in The Bridges; Hays Travel, Holmeside; Santander and Wilkinsons.

All gifts, which must be new and unwrapped, are donated to local charities and organisations.

“The party is one of the most popular events of the year” VIV WATTS

Some of the children who attended last year’s Christmas party and, below, children from Sunningdale School who helped launch our toy appeal.