The Reading Family Aid Toys and Teens Appeal: A HUGE Thank You to Our Supporters

The Reading Family Aid Toys and Teens Appeal 2024 has officially wrapped up for this year, and what an incredible success it has been! Sponsored by The Chronicle, the annual appeal calls on sponsors and supporters to donate new or nearly new toys for underprivileged children in Reading and the surrounding areas, ensuring they experience the joy of Christmas.
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This year, over 2,400 children will benefit from these generous donations, guaranteeing that every one of them receives a special gift this holiday season. The charity is currently hard at work packing the donated toys into age-appropriate sacks in preparation for distribution. Starting next week, the charity’s gift vans will make their rounds across the area, visiting neighbourhoods from Whitley to Caversham, and Woodley to Winnersh, spreading cheer and smiles to children and their families.

Aldryngton School toy collection

​One local school, which supports children who benefit from these gifts, expressed their gratitude: "We had toys from you last year and you were so generous and kind, and the parents were thrilled to bits. It really made a difference."

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Laura Windisch (R) Head of our Toys Appeal

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​Laura Windisch, Head of the Toys and Teens Appeal, shared her excitement: "We at Reading Family Aid are really looking forward to the completion of this year's Appeal and putting smiles on the faces of disadvantaged children. The people of Reading (and beyond) have been so generous, and we are already hearing how the donated toys and presents are going to make such a huge difference to so many families. To everyone who has donated a gift - THANK YOU. We couldn't do this without you. You are making a real contribution to the sum total of happiness in our town!"

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Leighton Park School children who arranged a donation collection

​​Reading Family Aid would like to extend special thanks to their incredible sponsors — Big Yellow, Caversham Vehicle Hire, The Freemasons, P&G, and Trust ID — whose ongoing support makes this appeal possible. Every single donation has a profound impact, ensuring that children across the community can experience the magic of Christmas. To everyone who contributed, thank you for your generosity and support.

Here’s to a festive season filled with joy, kindness, and giving! 🎄

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