South East donates £5,000 to Christmas Toy Appeal

South East region have donated £5,000 towards Mission Christmas, Wave 105’s Cash for Kids toy appeal.

The charity is aiming to deliver 20,000 presents to children and families living in poverty across the South. The children who receive gifts from the appeal are referred in by schools, local councils, GPs and foodbanks who identify those children who otherwise would wake up on Christmas Day without a present.

Brendon O’Neill, Regional Managing Director of South East said:

“Christmas is a special time of year for all of us but we know there are some less fortunate children who, sadly, might wake up on Christmas Day without. Mission Christmas does a truly remarkable job ensuring every child feels special and we’re absolutely delighted to support them. We sincerely hope this donation from will help ensure Santa can visit a few more children this year.”

Sam Tanner, Charity Manager for Mission Christmas commented:

“We are really grateful to Persimmon Homes for their generous donation of £5,000. We are helping over 20,000 children and teenagers across the south this Christmas as there is a much greater need. More families are struggling to buy food and heat their homes so presents are a luxury that they just cannot afford and this donation will bring the magic of Christmas to more local children.”

Mission Christmas are continuing to distribute presents to children in need this week ahead of Christmas Day. Anyone interested in still contributing to the toy appeal can find our more information here.

Some of the main beneficiaries from this appeal include children in care, foster children and families who are struggling financially. Mission Christmas has reported a surge in demand this year as the cost of living crisis worsens. 

Cllr Darren Paffey, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children & Learning for Southampton City Council added:

“We know everyone is struggling with the cost of living crisis so it is inspiring to see businesses and communities working together with our social workers to ensure vulnerable children aren’t left behind. This is exactly what Christmas is all about and I want to say thank you to Persimmon, and all the businesses involved, for their contributions.”