MAYOR’S TOY APPEAL

A big thank you to everyone involved in the 2011 Christmas Toy Appeal, run in partnership with St George’s Community Children’s Project.    An amazing 326 children from babies to 17 year olds received a sack of presents especially chosen for them, delivered to their family by their Social Worker or Health Visitor.

Despite the economic downturn, the response was brilliant.  From the giving trees, schools, organisations, individuals, shops and churches, thank you. 

Then there is the team led by Pam Bridges who sort the gifts and make sure each child receives a soft toy, a book and activity toy appropriate for their age.  Islay O’Hara and team, who co-ordinate and run the appeal.  The Town Hall staff who help co-ordinate and run the appeal, send all the letters out and provide back up, press coverage and posters.  The Big Yellow Self Storage Company Ltd for making it all possible and an anonymous gentleman who contributes £500 each year.  Special thanks goes to Hilden Grange School, Tonbridge, for their massive contribution and also to St Matthew’s Primary School, St Mary’s Church, Speldhurst, Beechwood School, St Dunstan’s Church, Southborough and the Renal Unit at the Tunbridge Wells Kidney Centre who all joined our appeal for the first time.  Lastly, those who transported toys.  Thank you.

We have been able to give gifts to the children who attend family days at Blantyre House.  For many it is the first time they have been able to share receiving presents, sometimes for as long as 10 years.

On behalf of all the children and families who you helped to make happier this Christmas, thank you.  We can safely say this year’s appeal was a great success and it was all down to you.  Each gift you gave is being treasured by someone who would have had no present thus making children and their parents happy.

Yours sincerely

Councillor Elizabeth Thomas

Mayor