Accountancy firm opens collection point for Swindon Christmas Toy Appeal from today (November 21)

The team at Haines Watts Swindon have volunteered their office reception area in Old Town as a collection point for the annual Christmas Toy Appeal from today (November 21).

In the six years the appeal has been running thousands of children from low income and vulnerable families have received gifts donated by the people of Swindon. 

Organiser Dawn Prosser said: “The aim is to bring a little hope and happiness to families who would find giving presents to their children very difficult without resorting to loans, especially this year when the cost of living is such a challenge.

“Due to the kindness of the town in 2021 we were able to bless 373 referred families with a total of 923 children with a complete gift sack, including two main presents, a book, soft toy (0 – five year olds) and two stocking fillers!

“We believe the need will be greater this year so we’re asking for help from all across the town.”

Anna-Marie Healy, regional marketing manager for Haines Watts South West said: “We were thrilled with the response and generosity of our local community last year and this year we have just two weeks to gather presents to support the most needy in our town. 

“We want to do our bit to spread some joy when much of the news around us is a little gloomy. We believe every child deserves to smile at Christmas.”

Between Monday and Friday December 2, churches, businesses, schools, and organisations will be collecting donations of new toys for children aged 0-16. 

Families will be nominated to receive presents by agencies in the town, and by participating churches or schools. This year, due to Covid restrictions being lifted, families will once again be able to choose presents for their children, by visiting their chosen church venue, who will be opening their doors in the run up to Christmas. 

The Haines Watts’ office is at Old Station House, Newport Street, Swindon, SN1 3DU. Opening hours are Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. Any questions can be directed to the team by calling 01793 533838.

Nationally, Haines Watts is a top 15 firm of Chartered Accountants who specialise in advising and supporting business owners, individuals and not-for-profit organisations locally and throughout the UK. The firm has been at the centre of the Swindon and Wiltshire business communities for more than 25 years. For more information visit https://www.hwca.com/accountants-swindon/