23rd December 2024
The annual NSPCC Congleton Christmas Toy Appeal wraps up for another year, and organisers are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of the community. This year’s appeal saw a record number of donations ensuring that children in need across Congleton will experience the magic of Christmas.
The appeal, which is a collaborative effort between Congleton Town Council, Plus Dane Housing, Congleton Chronicle, and the local branch of the NSPCC, ensures that every gift reaches a local child or teenager in need. The team carefully sorts and distributes donations to ensure they are age- and gender-appropriate, providing a special touch to families in challenging circumstances.
Plus Dane’s Regional Operations Manager, Kirsteen Smith, who co-ordinated the distribution said: "This has been the biggest year ever for donations, and we are so grateful to everyone who contributed. Sadly, it’s also the biggest year ever for local families in need. Your generosity will help bring joy and hope to so many children who are facing difficult times this Christmas."
Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Kay Wesley, praised the community spirit: "The response to this year’s NSPCC Toy Appeal has been phenomenal. It’s a testament to the compassion and kindness of the people of Congleton. I’m so proud of our town for coming together to make a real difference this Christmas. I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed , from the organisers to all the individuals and local businesses who donated, proving once again that the spirit of giving is alive and well in Congleton.”
While the number of donations exceeded expectations, the need for support is also greater than ever, as many families continue to struggle with the rising cost of living. In addition to toys, cash donations were collected to support Childline, helping the NSPCC provide vital services to children across the UK.
Over the holiday season, Childline expects to hear from thousands of children, many of whom face heartbreaking situations such as neglect, abuse, or family breakdowns. The funds raised will help ensure more children in distress can access the support they need during this critical time.
