The Redditch Toy Appeal organised by the 12 Anglican churches that make up the Redditch Mission Area has helped provide Christmas presents for over 1000 local children this year, with families able to choose their own gifts at a very special shop in the Kingfisher centre. With more children referred than ever before, staff from the diocesan team, including Archdeacon Nikki were among those who volunteered at the shop unit throughout its week of operation.
Now in its fifth year, the Redditch Toy Appeal aims to ‘make Christmas special’ by transforming a shop unit generously donated by the Kingfisher Shopping centre into a festive haven filled with thousands of toys gifted by the local community. This provides shopping-like experiences for families, where they can choose the right gifts for their children. The unit also provides a safe space where prayer and pastoral conversations can also take place.
Elaine Whitfield who leads on Co-ordinating the Redditch Toy Appeal said:
“I would hate to think that any child would go without a present at Christmas so its wonderful to be able to facilitate donating gifts to our local families, but in a way that preserves their dignity. The level of need is higher than ever before, so it’s wonderful that the community has rallied round and this has been matched by people’s generosity.”
“The Appeal is a great way of reaching out to our community and sharing God’s love in a practical way. It’s very rewarding to know that we’re making a difference.”
Archdeacon Nikki said:
“It’s been brilliant to be part of the 2025 Redditch Toy Appeal and volunteer here. Elaine and her team have done a fantastic job - the setup is amazing; it’s looks like a proper toy emporium! Seeing the wonder on people’s faces as they come in and realise this is all for them and their kids is so rewarding. I’ve really enjoyed being part of this amazing opportunity.”
One parent, Louise, who visited the shop said:
“I don’t know what I’d do without this! My kids would have nothing otherwise. It’s a lovely idea being able to choose your own. My kids’ reading ages are actually higher than their biological ages so it’s great I can choose the right books for them.”
Another parent, Amy, added:
“My daughter is actually more into football and what some people might say are traditionally ‘boys toys’ so it’s been great being able to choose gifts for her! It’s a lovely touch that wrapping paper is provided as well so I can wrap her presents here too.”
Elaine and the team plan to host the Redditch Toy Appeal again next year and will be looking for donations from early December. Every year they run low on gifts for teenage boys so please do consider if you can provide an extra present next Christmas.
