Can you give a needy child a gift for Christmas?

For the fifth year running Rotherham Children and Young People’s Services has launched an appeal to provide gifts for Rotherham children and families in need.

Working in partnership with organisations including Rother FM, Parkgate Shopping and Holiday Inn Rotherham, the team is hoping to surpass last year’s delivery of food and toys to hundreds of needy children and families as well as helping organisations such as children's  centres. 

Cllr Paul Lakin, Cabinet member for safeguarding children said: “Many families across Rotherham have enjoyed a better Christmas thanks to the generosity of Rotherham people who have supported our appeal in the past.

“Now we’re urging you to help us again and make this festive season even more special.”

The appeal got underway with the launch of Parkgate Shopping and Rother FM’s four ‘Giving Trees’ which have been placed around the shopping complex.

Anyone can go along, collect a gift tag and buy a suitable present for the age group and gender of a child specified on the tag.

On Monday  a Giving Tree will also be placed at Holiday Inn Rotherham for anyone wanting to join in with the appeal.

The Holiday Inn and Rotherham Town Hall will act as a collection point where people can drop off their new toys and tins throughout December.

During the first week in December, Rotherham Borough Council employees are also being asked to bring tins of food to work or making cash donations which will be turned into Christmas hampers ready for Christmas delivery.

Any companies, organisations or individuals who want to get involved can contact Ann Levick on 01709 336351 or email at [email protected].