​Our Toys and Teens Appeal 2025 is now in its second week – and the response has already been incredible. But with thousands of local children still in need, we need to keep the gift donations coming.
 
This year, the appeal aims to bring Christmas magic to more than 2,500 disadvantaged children across Reading and the surrounding areas. Volunteers are busy collecting new and nearly new toys from over 30 donation points, ready to be delivered to families before Christmas Day.
 
Wendy Howell, a long-time volunteer and former Chair of Reading Family Aid, reflected on why the appeal remains so vital after more than two decades of involvement:
 
“I have been involved with the charity for over 25 years. Originally volunteering at the Toy Appeal before joining the committee, I have been involved in outings, fundraising and been the Chair on two occasions. But the best part for me is the Toy Appeal. I have seen many changes over the years. The quality and amount of toys and games donated has increased. Our publicity has generated many people and companies donating to us both in terms of time as volunteers or financially. But by far the biggest change is that there are more children than ever out there who need our support.”
 
Wendy recalled powerful moments that have stayed with her throughout her time volunteering:
 
“On one occasion I had to deliver a sack of toys to a family who slipped through the net of our Toy Appeal. The house was quite bare and the mum broke down in tears thanking us. She had thought her children wouldn’t get any toys that year. On another occasion, a health visitor came to collect items for a teenage girl. This time I broke down as she shared the fact that the child had no bedding, was dirty and needed toiletries. All of this is why I continue to volunteer and therefore I urge you to do anything you can to help us.”
 
Twenty-five years ago, Reading Family Aid supported around 400 children through the Toy Appeal. This year, that number has risen more than sixfold – a clear sign that the need for support is greater than ever.
 
We are especially in need of gifts suitable for teenagers aged 13 and over, as this group often receives the fewest donations. Items such as toiletries, sports accessories, books, vouchers, and age-appropriate games are especially appreciated.
 
To help make a difference, you can:

• Donate new or nearly new toys and gifts at one of the 30+ donation points.
• Give to the online fundraising page, which helps us to purchase presents for age groups that receive fewer donations.
• Buy gifts from our Amazon Wishlist and have them sent directly to us.

 
For a list of what to donate visit: https://www.readingfamilyaid.org/what-to-donate.html
 
Together, we can ensure no child in our community wakes up without a gift this Christmas. Every donation, big or small, helps make the season brighter for local families in need.
 
THANK YOU

Reading Family Aid’s Toys & Teens appeal is back for another year, sponsored by The Reading Chronicle. This year the appeal is accepting new and nearly new toys at 30 donation points across Reading and the surrounding areas. These toys and gifts will be distributed to disadvantaged children in Reading and the surrounding area, ready to be opened on Christmas day. 

Jill, a Parish Nurse at Reading Gateway, has been involved in the Toys and Teens Appeal for the past five years. She said: “The appeal means so much to us. It is truly amazing to see the joy it brings to children who might otherwise receive very little. Parents often express deep gratitude, saying how the support helps relieve the enormous stress of what should be a happy time. Without this appeal, many would find it unbearable not being able to provide even a small gift for their children. To be able to lift that burden and bring smiles to families is a real privilege.

One family who had been dreading Christmas were able, through the appeal, to wrap toys that were just right for their children. For the first time ever, there was a sack of presents under their Christmas tree. The parents were overwhelmed with relief and joy, and the children experienced a Christmas they had never known before. Moments like this show just how powerful the appeal can be”.

Reading Mayor Councillor Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles officially launched this year’s appeal today. She said, “There’s a lot of hidden poverty in Reading. This charity is very important in our town. It donates all sorts of toys to children during Christmas who need it, and it alleviates the stresses from families who can’t afford toys. We need your donations, we need families to be supported, this is a crucial charity in doing that as we go into Christmas. Please support the appeal by donating gifts at any of the donation points in Reading. Thank you.”

While all donations are welcome, the charity is making a heartfelt plea for new presents suitable for teenagers aged 13 and over - the age group most often forgotten during the holidays.

“Every year we see how much these gifts mean to families who are struggling,” said a spokesperson for Reading Family Aid. “We’re expecting to help more children than ever this year, and we particularly need gifts for teenagers. A thoughtful present can make a young person feel seen and valued at a time that can be especially difficult.”

Please see our list of gift ideas for children in the 13-16 age group, for guidance on what to donate.

To support the campaign you can donate a gift to any of our drop off points.

If you cannot donate a gift the campaign also has an online GoFundMe page where you can make a financial donation. This will help us to buy presents for age groups that receive less donations each year.

Another easy way to donate is by purchasing from our Amazon Wishlist. We have chosen a list of items we know will be needed for older children - buying anything from this list will be a great help to ensure we have a good range of gifts for teenagers.

Together, we can make Christmas magical for every child in our community.

Thank you