“If we can help a little bit that means everything, that every kid has a special Christmas,” a toy bank organiser told the BBC.
The Bracknell Christmas Toy Bank was started by four local mothers in 2023 to ease the festive season’s financial pressures for families.
The organisers of the Berkshire event said it had seen a huge rise in demand, with more than 400 children receiving a toy this year, twice as many as last Christmas.
Afterwards, one of the organisers, Ashleigh Pinto, said they would continue doing it, because “clearly by how busy we’ve been today, it is needed”.
Donations were accepeted between 27 October and 3 December, and gifts are given with no need for a referral, with items chosen to match a child’s gift list.
When the toy bank’s doors opened at the Lexicon, the queue stretched through the shopping centre.
One man in the queue said: “We think it’s very helpful to the community, especially giving old toys – trade them out for new ones.
“It’s brilliant for everybody, especially those who can’t afford it.”
Another woman added: “It’s been quite difficult this year trying to get presents for the kids, so just getting them a few little bits is brilliant. I wouldn’t be able to get [them] this without this.”
Bracknell Christmas Toy Bank is the brainchild of friends Kate Jordan, Ashleigh Pinto, Cat Bodin and Hannah Beech (l-r) [BBC]
It was set up by local mothers, Ms Pinto, Cat Bodin, Hannah Beech and Kate Jordan, after a conversation about clearing out old toys.
Ms Bodin said the idea started when the women were discussing clearing out toys before Christmas.
Ms Beech said volunteers of all ages had been involved.
She said: “Freddie is in the Beavers and Alex is in Squirrels and they have also been helping to contribute to the toy bank.
“We have been collecting donations, making posters for the event. It’s been amazing.”
Families could select a toy that they thought would be suitable for their child [BBC]
The toy bank was supported by Bracknell Forest Council leader Mary Templeton, who praised the women’s efforts: “People are coming in and they have got their Christmas.
“They’re going out the door with Christmas.”
Meanwhile, Ms Bodin hopes they have eased the stress for some local families.
She said: “It means a lot to see people feel relief and to make sure that kids will wake up on Christmas Day with nice gifts and with their parents not having to worry and struggle.”
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