Demand for Fife Christmas Toy Appeal rising as need grows

The Salvation Army in Fife, Scotland, is preparing for a significant increase in requests for support from this year’s Christmas Toy Appeal as community need rises sharply across the region, reflecting the continuing pressure on struggling families. 

Last year around 1000 children received new, unwrapped gifts who might otherwise go without. Organisers expect that figure to be even higher this Christmas and are preparing for as many as 250 additional referrals from social work, GPs and schools for families juggling the rising cost of energy bills, food shopping and other living expenses. 

Captain Andrew Manley is leading the appeal for The Salvation Army’s churches across Fife and is calling on communities to help the church and charity ensure all children have a present to open on Christmas Day. 

Capt. Andrew said: “Growing demand is reflected not only in Christmas support but in year-round need. In Kirkcaldy the emergency food bank, which typically quietens during the summer, has seen unprecedented pressure all year. The number of families coming to us for food parcels throughout the year has never been higher. We expect that to be felt even more at Christmas, which is why we are preparing to support many more children this December compared to last year. 

“The generosity of Fifers in supporting our annual appeal is always appreciated and heart warming. We hope the people of Fife will help make sure every child wakes up on Christmas Day with a smile on their face. Each toy we receive sends a message of hope at Christmas and the appeal is at the heart of our mission to support families with compassion and dignity.”

This year, all of The Salvation Army’s community churches in the area will be inviting parents to collect their parcels in person. Donations of new unwrapped toys can be handed in until 5pm on Friday 5 December at The Salvation Army’s churches, donation centres or charity shops. Donation points are also located at participating shops and supermarkets across Fife. For exact locations, visit: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550923030301.

Donations can also be made via JustGiving at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/thesalvationarmychristmas-2025-511

Gifts can include anything from educational toys, baby clothes, bath toys, books, including learn to read books (for babies and toddlers) to dolls and action figures, sports equipment and clothing, toiletries (non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers for older children.