The Doncaster Children’s Christmas Toy Appeal is on a heartfelt mission to bring joy to as many children as possible this Christmas season. This volunteer-led initiative accepts toy donations for children aged 0-18 across 35 drop-off points in and around Doncaster. After sorting the toys, they pass them to the Salvation Army, which distributes them through social workers and children’s organisations.
Doncaster resident Andry Crittenden, 44, has been leading the foundation since its inception in 2011. Reflecting on the journey, Crittenden said, “It started small, but over the last few years, it’s only grown. It used to be more localised, working with small family-owned businesses as drop-off points. Now we collaborate with local Tescos, Specsavers, and banks. It’s truly amazing; we receive so much support from the community.”
This year, MultiWebMarketing™, the designated drop-off point for North Doncaster, has once again made an outstanding contribution. MultiWebMarketing™ also donated 30 toys and collected an additional 80 new unopened toys, mostly from the generous Askern community. This marks the fifth consecutive year that MultiWebMarketing™ has been involved in Christmas charity appeals and events, consistently demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact in the local area and beyond.
A Legacy of Giving Back: MultiWebMarketing™
MultiWebMarketing™ has built an inspiring legacy of charitable efforts, raising several thousands of pounds for a variety of causes over the years. Their support has extended to organisations like Shelter (supporting Doncaster’s homeless), Bluebell Wood (providing cancer care for children), and Paces Sheffield (helping individuals with cerebral palsy and motor disorders).
Their innovative and heartfelt fundraising activities have ranged from parachute jumps to festive and humorous Christmas parodies. These have included a rendition of Band Aid’s iconic Christmas song and a playful take on East 17’s “Stay Another Day,” featuring the entire marketing team. These efforts not only raise vital funds but also foster a sense of community and festive spirit.
Spreading Joy Across Doncaster
Each year, the Toy Appeal continues to gain more attention and donations. “We never set a target number for toys,” Crittenden explained, “but we always aim to exceed the previous year’s total.” In 2022, despite the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, the appeal managed to gather 1,406 toys. Last year, they exceeded expectations by distributing 2,516 gifts on Christmas Day.
“We’re aiming for 3,000 gifts this year,” Crittenden shared, “but even if we don’t reach that, we know we’re making a real difference in people’s lives. The best part is how everyone comes back year after year to support us. From small businesses to local residents, they spread the word, hang up posters, and help us grow—by about 800 gifts annually.”
Although Crittenden has never received direct feedback from the children who receive the gifts, he’s confident in the impact of their work. “It’s about waking up on Christmas morning and knowing we’ve made someone’s Christmas brighter. That’s why we do what we do.”
With the foundation run entirely via its Facebook page and powered by local support, the Doncaster Children’s Christmas Toy Appeal continues to shine as a testament to the generosity of the Doncaster community—and the enduring efforts of organisations like MultiWebMarketing™.
Posted on 13 December 2024
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