THE Salvation Army is calling on the community in Penzance to donate new toys to its Christmas Present Appeal to support families who will struggle to make ends meet over the festive season.

Every year Salvation Army churches ask people to donate new toys and gifts for children whose families cannot put food on the table, heat their homes or pay their bills. Last year, Penzance Salvation Army distributed more than 80 gifts and the church and charity fears more people will need support this year.

Major Susan Tidball, Penzance Salvation Army church leader said: “The Salvation Army’s present appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have very little. We are incredibly grateful for the public’s generosity over the years and hope this year our appeal will be able to bring some respite to those who are struggling the most.

“Christmas is a time when financial worries are brought into sharp focus as the cost of living crisis continues to have a devastating impact on families who can’t afford to heat their homes or put a nutritious meal on the table. Helping parents provide a gift for their child not only eases financial pressures, but helps bring the joy of Christmas into their homes.” 

The church, which on 43-44 Queen Street, will be collecting donations of new unwrapped toys until Monday, December 16. The church is in need of gifts for children aged 0-16 years and the gift lists includes: soft toys, early learning toys, cars, dolls, dolls pram, push chair, ride-on toys, family games, hats, gloves, scarves, toiletries, lego, jigsaw puzzles, play dough, make up, clothing, and baby clothes.

People can drop their generous contribution at the church on Queen Street and also at Tesco Stores, Eastern Green. The Salvation Army will sort and distribute the gifts to children and families in the area through local groups, schools and social services.

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 (Try to ensure non-allergic ingredients), gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers for older children.

The public is invited to attend Advent Services leading to Christmas Day at 11am each Sunday. 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 the community. To help support The Salvation Army’s year-round work, visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/donate

For more information about the Christmas Present Appeal and ideas about gifts, visit: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/christmas-present-appeal