This Christmas, Dartford residents are being invited to help bring a little festive magic to local children through a special toy appeal launched by Dartford Borough Council and The Salvation Army.
The appeal is also being supported by Dartford Living, with local businesses across the borough encouraged to get involved.
The toy appeal aims to spread festive joy to children and families who may otherwise go without a gift this Christmas. Residents are being encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys and gifts at collection points across Dartford town centre, where they will be gathered, wrapped and distributed to those in need in time for Christmas.
The initiative forms part of a wider effort to support local people experiencing hardship, homelessness, or difficult circumstances during the festive season.
Donations of new, unwrapped gifts for children and young people of all ages are welcomed, and suggested donations include:
- 0-3 years: Dolls, teddy bears, cot mobiles, baby clothes, bath toys and puzzles.
- 3-5 years: Dolls, action figures, cars, lorries, colouring sets, pencils, crayons, books and puzzles.
- 5-9 years: Educational games and toys, stationery, books, puzzles, word searches and crosswords.
- 9-12 years: Games and toys, stationery, books, T-shirts, hair accessories, gloves, scarves and hats.
- 13-16 years: Books, make-up and toiletries, gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers.
Thanks to the support of Dartford design and print company ARC, specially created donation boxes have been installed at locations across the town centre. Residents can drop off gifts at:
Orchards Shopping Centre:
• Balloons 4 U
• MK Mix
Priory Shopping Centre:
• Sally Bees
• The Works
• The Christmas Grotto
Councillor Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, said:
"Christmas is all about bringing people together, looking out for one another, and sharing a little kindness. One of the things that makes Dartford such a special place is the generosity of our community, and I know local residents and businesses will once again rise to the occasion. Every gift donated will help bring a smile to a child's face and remind them that people care.
"I would encourage anyone who can to give the gift of giving this Christmas. A single toy may seem like a small gesture, but to a child who might otherwise go without, it can make all the difference. Together, we can help make Christmas brighter for local families and remind people that they're not alone."
More information on DBC’s toy appeal can be found here: www.dartford.gov.uk/toy-appeal
For further information, please contact press@dartford.gov.uk.