The Christmas spirit is well and truly alive in Wales as a record-breaking 13,250 gifts have been donated to the St David’s Toy Appeal, smashing the original target of 10,000 that had been set and beating the donation record set in previous years.
Supporting over 20 incredible charities this year, St David’s wanted to ensure that no child in South Wales is left empty handed this Christmas, and thanks to the generosity of shoppers, the initiative has generated thousands of donations for charities across Wales.
Since the appeal’s launch on December 1st, charitable shoppers have been out in force, picking up an extra gift and dropping them off at the centre’s Donation Station.
Due to the incredible amount of donations received, St David’s was able to expand the initiative, offering more toys to extra charities, and more to those who had already received an allocation.
Lots of South Wales businesses also got involved with the appeal with the likes of Brain’s Brewery, British Gas, Keep Wales Tidy and Cardiff Bus making generous donations. Children in the community also embraced the spirit of Christmas, with schools and nurseries including Little Inspirations, Brynmawr Primary School and Meithrinfa Miri Mawr dropping off donations during December.
Steven Madeley, General Manager for St David’s Cardiff, commented:
“This year’s record-breaking appeal has been the best yet and we are completely overwhelmed by the generosity of our shoppers yet again! Everyone who has donated has allowed us to give even more gifts to children across Wales who may not have the Christmas that we enjoy every year, so we would like to say a huge thanks to everyone that’s taken part.
“It’s been really wonderful to hear stories about individuals who have donated to the appeal, and some have even made repeat visits throughout the month! As well as those good Samaritans, we’ve also seen lots of local businesses and community groups coming together to help put smiles on the faces of families most in need this festive season.
“We want to thank everybody who donated, as your gift really will make a child’s Christmas.”
Commenting on the appeal, Stephen Price from Latch, said:
“The donation of so many wonderful toys has had such an incredible impact on the seriously ill children we’re supporting here at the Children’s Hospital for Wales. To see their eyes light up, opening presents that will occupy them when they’re in isolation or on treatment is just extraordinary.
“So many families are worried about having to spend Christmas here at the Hospital, but the toy donations make everything so much better, providing the entire family with lifelong memories. We would like to extend sincere thanks to everyone who donated this year – you’ve helped to raise smiles when it really does matter the most.”
Margaret O’Reilly from Barnardo’s Cymru added:
“We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated to the St David’s Toy Appeal. It was fantastic to receive gifts for all the age ranges we support – from small babies to young adults. The reaction from the families who have received the toys has been incredibly moving, and the generosity of the public has been completely overwhelming. A big thank you from Barnardo’s Cymru!”
