Derby Central church thanks community for toy donations

Derby Central Salvation Army church packed an additional 100 toy parcels compared to last Christmas, amid the cost-of-living crisis to provide Christmas presents to children who would otherwise have been left out.

The toys were donated by the kind generosity of the local community. The Salvation Army were able to provide toys to children who wouldn’t otherwise receive a gift at Christmas, working with local social services and other charities working with vulnerable children requesting an additional 100 toy parcels, bringing the total to 810.

Major Elaine Holder, church leader at The Salvation Army said: “I was truly touched by the public’s generosity during a cost-of-living crisis. Our thanks go to the customers of the Derbion shopping centre, who were able to donate toys into a ‘giving box’ along with donations of toys from local businesses and members of the public who donated directly to us at the church.

"We would also like to thank our team of hard-working volunteers that gave up their free time and helped to sort and pack the 800 plus gift parcels, made up of some 2,000 toys. Social workers have expressed how much the toy donations make a huge difference to families at Christmas”.

A church and charity, The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities. To help support The Salvation Army’s year-round work please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/donate.