Could you tell your children Santa isn’t coming this Christmas?

Reading is widely regarded as an affluent, successful tech hub, but for some families, the reality is starkly different. This winter, many parents face the heartbreaking choice between heating their homes or feeding their families. For these families, buying Christmas presents is completely out of the question.
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​​And this is where Reading Family Aid’s Toys and Teens Appeal aims to help. The appeal, sponsored by The Chronicle, collects new and nearly new toys and distributes them to families across Reading and the surrounding areas in time for Christmas. Charlie McLean, Publicity Manager for the charity, said “I have two young boys and I can’t imagine having to tell them that Santa hasn’t come this year. Christmas is a magical time in our family, and to have to explain to them they wouldn’t be getting any presents would be devastating. This appeal is so important, bringing a little joy to the lives of families who are truly struggling”.

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B Radio Tomson Chauke (L) and Paul Cooper (R)

This year, the Toys and Teens Appeal has received generous sponsorship from local radio station B Radio. Gavin Harris from the station explained: “For our team, this appeal is incredibly personal. Many of our presenters and producers live in Reading and see firsthand the struggles many families are facing. Living in an area where the cost of living is high, it's easy for these challenges to be overlooked, especially as the wealthier parts of Reading can mask the financial pressures so many face. For our team, supporting this goes beyond our roles at the station—it's about giving back to our neighbours and friends and doing what we can to make a difference for families in need this Christmas. For the children receiving these gifts, it’s about much more than a present—it's a reminder that the community cares about them, and it's a chance for them to experience the magic of the season despite the challenges their families might be facing”.

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Smyths Toys

​In 2023, the appeal brought smiles to the faces of 2,500 children across Reading by providing them with toys and gifts. This year, the goal is to surpass that number—but your help is crucial to making it happen. Donations of new and nearly new toys can be dropped off at designated collection points around town. These gifts will go directly to children referred by social workers, charities, schools, and places of worship working with families in need.
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​Every single donation counts. Whether it’s an artistic gift set, an exciting game, or an engrossing book, each gift has the potential to create lasting memories and spread hope. If you’re unsure of what to buy, the charity’s wishlist is a great place to start, or you can donate directly to the Go Fund Me page.

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Mapledurham Golf Club

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​One challenge the appeal faced last year was a shortage of gifts for teenagers aged 13 and over. This age group is often overlooked during the holiday season. Supporters are encouraged to consider donating items like board games, makeup kits, art sets, or gift cards to ensure no teenager feels left out.

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​Join us this holiday season to make a tangible difference in our community. Your generosity is vital in ensuring that every child in Reading experiences the magic of Christmas. Together, we can create a community where no child wakes up without a present on Christmas morning.

For more information on donation points or how you can help, please visit our website or follow us on social media. Let’s work together to make this Christmas unforgettable!

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