Central Co-op has revealed that its annual Christmas Toy Appeal collected over 7,000 gifts for children in need during December 2022.
Having taken place across all of Central Co-op’s 248 food stores and 179 funeral homes, with an additional visit from a festive truck to six locations, the appeal ran from 4 November to 2 December.
The toys have since been distributed to the convenience retailers partners across the country including Family Action, The Salvation Army, Rainbows and Play Action International.
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“Tens of thousands of Ukranian children have sought refuge in the UK after fleeting conflict,” Play Action International marketing and communications manager, Ashton Josephs said.
“Toys generously donated through the Central Co-op Toy Appeal will provide a much-needed chance for these children to enjoy their childhood and these amazing toys – that can help them to play, develop and begin to heal from the unimaginable trauma they have experiences.”
Family Action chief executive, David Holmes CBE said: “We want to thank Central England Co-op for their extremely generous donation. The Family Action Christmas Toy Appeal makes a big difference to everyone involved, especially this winter as many of the families we work with are facing increasing financial pressures due to the cost-of-living crisis.”
Rainbows corporate partnership fundraiser, Kirsty Coxon added: “On behalf of Rainbows, I would like to that Central Co-op for their incredible donations.
“We rely almost entirely on our supporters and their backing enables us to provide care to, and make memories with, more than 300 babies, children and young people with serious and terminal illnesses.”
This news comes as the Central Co-op has revealed that it is awarding £27,750 to 32 UK charities and good causes through its Community Dividend Fund, which provides communities with access to food, health and wellbeing.
