Santa Appeal Launched
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has once again launched its festive Santa Appeal to ensure children less fortunate than others receive a present this Christmas. **Lines open tomorrow**
The Santa Appeal has become a popular tradition across the county borough and, last year, an incredible 2,300 toys and games were gifted to children who, without the appeal, may not have received a present for Christmas.
It was launched by Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Services and Equalities at Traditional Toys in Llantrisant. The shop and owner Ann Grother has been a key supporter of the campaign for a number of years and kindly donated presents to get the appeal started.
Residents, businesses and community groups are urged to get involved in the appeal. All you have to do is phone or email the Santa Appeal hotline to be given the name and age of the child you will be buying a present for.
Staff from the appeal will also give you details of where you can drop the present off. Santa Appeal lines are open to the public from November 3 to 27 and all presents need to be at the collection points by December 4 to ensure they reach the children in time.
Last year saw residents, Council and partner agency staff, businesses, supermarkets, universities, day centres, care homes and more pledged 2,300 presents – and the Council wants to collect even more in 2015.
Cllr Hopkins said: “The Santa Appeal is now a firm Christmas tradition at Rhondda Cynon Taf and we are so grateful for the generosity shown by our residents and businesses.
“Last year we enjoyed an incredible response – from residents who bought a present for one child, to businesses and universities who clubbed together to buy or donate a van-full of toys.
“Each and every person who pledged a present made a massive difference to the lives of children less fortunate than others, ensuring they had a lovely gift to open on Christmas day.
“We want the 2015 Santa Appeal to be even bigger and better so we can create a magical Christmas for our vulnerable younger residents.
“Of course, Christmas is not just about receiving gifts and the Santa Appeal allows us to enjoy the true meaning of the festive period, as we come together to help others less fortunate than ourselves and celebrate through sharing and kindness.”
Residents, businesses and organisations are invited to contact the Santa Appeal by calling 01443 425025 or emailing the Santa Appeal team now.
