Rushden toy appeal helps needy local families

The My Christmas Wish Toy Appeal is in its fifth year and offers toys, gifts and vouchers donated by local people to deserving families from Rushden and Higham Ferrers.

The appeal is organised by Wesleyan Church member Mark Weekley from Simpson and Weekley Estate Agent and Jeanette Maddams from East Northants Child Contact Services.

This year, the group supported 64 families including 150 children who were referred to them. They received toys and food to help make this Christmas a happier one.

At a special event last Saturday, Primark vouchers were given to 53 teens and £40 Asda vouchers handed to needy families. Family swim vouchers and sports passes were also given out.

Help was also offered to the campaign by many organisations including the Full Gospel Church, East Northants Community Services, the Food Bank, Recovery House Pemberton Sports Centre and Splash Pool, local churches and toddler groups.

The campaign was also boosted by support from Rushden Town Mayor Cesare Marinaro and Denfield School who raised £800 for their appeal at their Christmas Craft event.

Organiser Jeanette Maddams said : "It was a really lovely morning.

"This event was made possible by the people of Rushden donating beautiful gifts and also Denfield School donating the proceeds of their Christmas craft sale of £800.

"We also had £100 from the Wesleyan Church.

"A big thank you to all who helped make this a success. Leftover gifts have been given to the Food Bank to distribute between now and Christmas."