The Council is excited to announce the launch of its annual Toy Drive for 2025.
The Toy Drive, now in its twelfth year, has been a tremendous success, with over 40,284 donations made, and reaching 18,265 children and young people in the past 11 years. This year, we aim to increase our efforts to reach even more children and young people who might not receive a gift without the generosity and support of our community.
The cherished scheme will run from today until Friday 12 December 2025. We ask for donations of new, unwrapped gifts, once they are in the 'elves' workshop they will be sorted and wrapped by our dedicated team of volunteers, ensuring that every child receives a special present in time for the holidays.
Cllr Laurie Burton, cabinet member for children, young people, and SEND, said: "It's that special time of year again, and the Toy Drive is back to bring festive cheer to children across our city.
"Every year, I'm moved by the generosity of our community and the kindness shown to those who need it most. Supporting local toy shops while making Christmas magical for others is a wonderful way to give back.
"A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated in the past. We're once again calling on your support to help make this Christmas truly special for vulnerable children and young people in Southend."
If you want to get involved, you can donate:
- new toys, suitable for girls, boys and babies up to the age of 18
- vouchers for toys or days out
- selection packs
- pens, pencils and colouring books
- toiletry sets
- if batteries are needed for the toys, please include them
If you would like to donate to the Toy Drive, you can do so by purchasing gifts from Argosy Toys or Toys ‘N’ Tuck. Council elves will then collect toys from the stores. Or you can deliver your donation to the Civic Centre, the Forum or Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre by Friday 12 December.
You can also purchase toys online from Argosy Toys and select 'Toy Drive' or search 'Southend Toy Drive Donation' to buy a toy from Toys 'N' Tuck. For bulk donations, email: toydrive@southend.gov.uk to arrange a drop-off.