The Reading Family Aid Toys and Teens Appeal: Last Chance to Share Christmas Joy with Local Families in Need

The Reading Family Aid Toys and Teens Appeal 2024 is now in its penultimate week, and we’re calling on the generosity of Reading residents to help make this Christmas special for local children and teens in need. Sponsored by The Chronicle, this heartwarming appeal seeks donations of new or nearly new gifts for children and teenagers who may otherwise not receive a single present this holiday season.

​Jill Anders, Parish Nurse for Reading Gateway Church, works in South Reading with families in need. After the appeal last year she said, “It was a joy to provide presents for the children who otherwise wouldn’t receive anything at Christmas … One little person said to me.. “I woke on Christmas day and Father Christmas came. I got presents in a sack which I knew came from Father Christmas, as my mummy had told me she couldn’t get us any this year”… The tears of gratitude from parents who had no idea how they would manage…. The squeals of delight sent to me over voice message, as the children were opening their presents… The Toys and Teens Appeal will provide presents for 21 children and teens this year whom I support. These children and young people would not receive anything if it wasn’t for the generosity of those that give so freely to this amazing charity, which brings just so much joy to those who so desperately need it”.

Children from St Andrew's donating toys from their collection

Last year, over 2,500 children received gifts as a result of this appeal, and this year, the same number have been registered as being in need of a present. To meet this demand, the appeal is asking for help from individuals, schools, businesses, and organisations across Reading. If you would like to arrange a collection, Reading Family Aid would be incredibly grateful for any donations. All gifts must be received by 7th December, after which they will be packed into sacks and distributed to children throughout Reading and the surrounding areas.

​One longstanding supporter of the appeal is St Andrew’s School, Pangbourne. Will Carter, Head of Juniors, expressed his school’s commitment: “It is our pleasure to support Reading Family Aid’s toy appeal at St Andrew’s. Being able to play even the smallest part in helping to make a child’s Christmas that bit more special is a great privilege. We look forward to continuing to work alongside the RFA team for years to come”. 

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Donations of new or nearly new toys can be dropped off at designated collection points throughout Reading. These gifts will go directly to children referred by social workers, charities, schools, and places of worship that work with families in need.

Every donation makes a difference. Whether it's an artistic gift set, an exciting board game, or an engaging book, each present has the potential to create lasting memories and bring hope. If you're unsure what to buy, the charity’s wishlist is a great place to start, or you can donate directly to the Go Fund Me page.

A 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. The appeal asks supporters to consider donating items such as board games, makeup kits, art sets, or gift cards to ensure that teenagers are included and feel valued this Christmas.

This holiday season, your generosity is vital to helping the appeal in its aim that no child wakes up without a present on Christmas morning. For more information on donation points or how you can help, please visit the website or follow on social media.

Let’s work together to make this Christmas unforgettable!

​Thank you so much for your support!

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