Accountancy firm will open its doors again to become a collection point for Swindon’s Christmas Toy Appeal

The team at Haines Watts Swindon have volunteered their office in Old Town as a collection point for the annual Swindon Christmas Toy Appeal which launches on Monday November 13.

The appeal is now in its seventh year, supporting thousands of children from low income and vulnerable families receive gifts generously donated by the people of Swindon. 

“We are delighted that the Haines Watts team has again come forward again to bring this appeal to reality,” said Dawn Prosser who is the appeal coordinator on behalf of Gateway Church in West Swindon. 

“We are already receiving enquiries. With more and more families struggling for a variety of reasons, any help with donations of toys or finance, sorting and choosing presents or delivering presents to the families would be amazing.”

In 2022, more than 4,000 new toys were donated along with cash donations that were used to fill any ‘gaps’ particularly for teenagers. The donations needed are for NEW toys for children aged 0 to 16. 

Families in need will be nominated by agencies in the town or through participating churches and schools. Parents and guardians will then be invited to attend a venue to choose and wrap presents for their children ready for the festive season. Last year, new toys were given to 546 children within 217 families – the highest total to date.

Anna-Marie Healy, regional marketing manager for Haines Watts in the South West said: “Each year the need to support local families is increasing, and with the help of our colleagues, clients and local community we are able to provide this support to the Toy Appeal. “

“At what can be a stressful and expensive time of year, it’s important to us that parents and guardians relax for a while and enjoy their time with their children. By donating to this Appeal, you will bring a little hope and happiness to local families.”

The appeal will run between Monday November 13 and Monday December 4 at venues across the town. Anyone wishing to make a financial donation or volunteer their time to support the appeal can find out more by visiting https://gatewaychurchswindon.org.uk/toy-appeal

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. 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/