The Salvation Army has urged Bolton residents to donate toys for its Christmas Present Appeal. The annual initiative aims to support families struggling to make ends meet during the festive season. The Salvation Army's churches across the nation ask people to donate new toys and gifts for children whose families are unable to afford basic necessities.
Farnworth Salvation Army alone distributed more than 200 gifts last year. The church and charity predict that even more people will require assistance this year. Beverley Monteith, community manager for The Salvation Army in Farnworth, said: "The Salvation Army’s present appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have very little.
"We are incredibly grateful for the public’s generosity over the years and hope this year our appeal will be able to bring some respite to those who are struggling the most. "Christmas is a time when financial worries are brought into sharp focus as the cost of living crisis continues to have a devastating impact on families who can’t afford to heat their homes or put a nutritious meal on the table. "Helping parents provide a gift for their child not only eases financial pressures, but helps bring the joy of Christmas into their homes.
" The church and community centre on Brackley Street, Farnworth, will be accepting donations of new, unwrapped gift sets for teenagers until Friday, December 13. Donations can be.