Central Co-op launches 2025 Christmas Toy Appeal to spread comfort and joy across communities

Central Co-op’s much-loved Christmas Toy Appeal is back, bringing communities together to make sure all children wake up to a gift on Christmas morning.

From 12th November to 13th December, Toy Donation Points will be available in all Central Co-op stores and funeral homes, where customers and Members can drop off brand-new toys, games and gifts for children who might otherwise go without.

The appeal supports local and national charities working with families in need across Central Co-op’s trading area, ensuring donations make a real difference close to home and further afield.

In addition, Central Co-op’s Toy Appeal van will be travelling across the country, popping up at selected stores with festive samples from the Society’s Christmas food range, including Gingerbread & Maple Mince Pies, Irresistible Giant Cinnamon Knots, Fruited & Spiced Stollen, Black Forest Brownies, and Irresistible Roast Duck & Spiced Clementine Crisps. Visitors can stop by to donate while enjoying a taste of Christmas.

Elaine Dean, President of Central Co-op, said: “The Toy Appeal captures what our co-operative values are all about - community, compassion and care. Every donation brings a little hope and happiness to children who deserve a magical Christmas. We’re so grateful to our Members, colleagues and customers for their generosity year after year.”

Last year, Central Co-op’s Toy Appeal collected more than 3,500 gifts for children supported by local charities.

The Society is also continuing a range of initiatives to support children and families experiencing poverty due to the increasing cost-of-living, from colleague financial wellbeing programmes and community grants to food redistribution through Olio, and partnerships with Samaritans and Child Bereavement UK.

Central Co-op welcomes donations that are:

• Brand new and unused
• Non-violent and non-edible
• Not battery-operated or require ongoing costs

Together, let’s make it a season of comfort and joy for every child. To find your nearest Central Co-op shop and drop-off point, visit stores.centralengland.coop/search, details on becoming a Member can be found at Members.coop.