Children from across Wolverhampton who may not be receiving much this Christmas will benefit from this year’s Shoebox Appeal organised by Wolves Foundation.
The Foundation are collecting new toys and gifts from individuals and businesses via the annual appeal which will then be distributed to several local charities.
The Good Shepherd, the Women & Families Resource Centre, the Haven, Jericho House and Strengthening Families Hubs will receive the completed shoeboxes to pass on to the young people across Wolverhampton who access their charities.
Strengthening Families Hubs are also passing on presents to children of refugees who are living in the city.
“This is the third year we have organised the Shoebox Appeal in its current form, and we are delighted to be increasing the number of charities that we are working with,” said Jade Sutton, senior health officer with Wolves Foundation.
“We have only been able to do this thanks to the fantastic support we receive from individuals and businesses throughout the city.
“We know that these are challenging times for a lot of people, but we are also seeing that there are still so many who are willing to do their bit to support the most vulnerable in our local communities.
“The charities we are working with engage with a lot of children who will be receiving nothing or very little this Christmas, and just receiving presents from the Shoebox Appeal can give them a real boost.
“On behalf of Wolves Foundation, and all the local charities, we would like to thank everyone who makes a contribution which will help put some smiles on children’s faces this Christmas.”
Local companies Lefroy Brooks and Bard & Brazier, pictured, have already kindly donated a fantastic 89 shoeboxes and items already featuring include games, teddy bears, gloves and hats.
Anyone who is able to put together a Shoebox containing gifts can drop them off at Wolfie’s Den, next to the Megastore, between 9am and 12noon on Saturday, December 17th. These will then be delivered directly to the charities on the following Monday. Anyone unable to drop items off on that day is asked to email jadesutton@wolves.co.uk
Gifts are distributed for children from birth up to the age of 16, with supporters asked to label their box for either a boy or girl and mark the age range, ideally either 0-3, 3-5, 5-9, 9-12 or 13-16. Donators are encouraged not to include second hand gifts, used or damaged items, anything sharp or fragile or CDs or DVDs.
Wolves Foundation are also extremely appreciative of support once again being received from the Sikh Toy Appeal.
Volunteers deliver presents to the Foundation which will be added to those received from the Shoebox Appeal and distributed to the charities to help spread some festive cheer this Christmas.