Christmas comes early to Shoeburyness
published on 20 Oct 2021
It may be more than two months until the big day but Christmas is already underway in Shoeburyness.
That’s because Salvation Army leaders have already put up their tree in the community centre on Frobisher Way to launch their annual appeal, which will also cover Rayleigh and Leigh-on-Sea.
Captain Clare Davis and husband Captain Rob Davis bought their Christmas tree early last year, and after the last 18 months, the couple decided to waste no time in spreading some festive spirit in 2021.
She said: “We put it together to see if it was all there and put a toybox underneath it. Why shouldn’t we do it early? We’d be delighted if people wanted to bring something to donate. Last year we helped over 100 individuals who were referred to us at Christmas. We will be helping people again this year.”
Rob said: “People are telling their neighbours. Estate agents who supported us last year have already come back saying they want to help, so we are hoping to expand to other businesses. We are blessed that people want to help, although this is something we will never take for granted.”
Clare stressed the appeal is for vulnerable families and individuals
She added: “Nobody in need will get turned away and mum and dad get a present too. Everybody receives something. We’re looking for toiletry sets, socks, gloves, scarves, vouchers, calendars, mug sets or any toys or gifts. Pretend you are shopping for someone in your family.”
The Salvation Army in Shoeburyness aims to be at the heart of the community all year round, Rob said.
He added: “For us Christmas is important – no child or family should go without. Giving back shows us the true meaning of Christmas when we also celebrate the birth of Jesus.”
Restrictions permitting, Rob and Clare hope to hold a toy appeal service in the second week of December with choirs from local primary schools.
Rob said: “Thank you to everyone in advance – we couldn’t do it without you.”
If you’d like to contribute to the appeal, visit The Salvation Army on Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness, or scan the QR code on posters around the town.
You can also donate here
