Whangārei Lions Club's toy appeal helps struggling families this Christmas

Whangārei Lions Club member Hugh Deverell with some of the donated toys. Photo / Karina Cooper

Families appear to be struggling more to put a gift under the Christmas tree for youngsters, Whangārei Lions Club member Hugh Deverell says.

But help is on hand thanks to the club’s annual toy appeal.

For the last 40 Christmases, the Whangārei Lions Club has put the call out for toy donations which are then gathered and given to struggling families.

“I think a lot of kids wouldn’t see a lot of toys if it weren’t for the appeal,” Deverell said.

The response to this year’s appeal has been so great that more collection points had to be added.

“A man came in before it actually started and left six to eight big wooden toys - all handmade,” Deverell said.

Those toys plus a completely kitted-out plastic kitchen, books, jigsaw puzzles, teddy bears and dinosaurs are just some of the delights that will be unwrapped.

The appeal welcomes new and used toys, games and bikes in good working order.

Donations are given to local organisations who pick items best suited to the families and children they support.

“No kid should go without a toy at Christmas,” Deverell said.

People have until Thursday, December 12 to donate at the following locations: Parua Bay School, Whangārei Central Library, Santreno Shoes on Cameron St, and Kelly’s Automotives on Herekino St.

Do you know any Northlanders helping to spread cheer this festive season? We would love to hear from you as part of our Christmas Angels series. Please email karina.cooper@nzme.co.nz.