Hundreds of people have volunteered to sort presents as they come in for a Christmas toy appeal.
The Kevin Jenkins OBE Newham Christmas Toy Appeal 2025, now in full swing, aims to collect 15,000 gifts to ensure no child in Newham wakes up without a present on Christmas morning.
The appeal is run by Ambition, Aspire, Achieve (AAA) and supported by the Newham Recorder.
Jonny Boux, chief executive of AAA, said: "We have a whacking 350 corporate volunteers from 15 different companies to help sort the gifts and they will also be providing donations linked to their support."
Keel Toys delivered several boxes of toys to AAA’s main hub at the Terence Brown Arc In The Park in Canning Town.
AAA is also receiving support from Gallions Reach Shopping Park in Beckton, which has donated a unit to serve as the appeal’s toy warehouse.
West Ham United Academy and women’s first team players, who supported the launch, will be lending a hand at the warehouse alongside the borough’s three MPs.
A highlight of the campaign is the annual Christmas Toy Run, organised by motorcyclists who deliver toys to the appeal.
John Pryke, organiser of the toy run, said: "The bikers will start off their run at Triumph East London headquarters in London Road, Romford, at midday on Saturday (November 29) and arrive at the arc with their gifts."
Supporters can donate in several ways.
AAA has created an Amazon gift list featuring toys for children of all ages and price ranges.
Purchases are delivered directly to the appeal and can be found at amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/3KOW2QDDVQZ3P.
Cash donations can also be made through the appeal’s JustGiving page at justgiving.com/campaign/xmasappeal25.
Physical donations can be dropped off at the Terence Brown Arc In The Park in Bethell Avenue.
The drop-off centre is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and from 10am to 1pm on Saturdays.
AAA will record all donations and share the impact with supporters after Christmas.
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The charity said the appeal comes at a critical time as many families face increasing financial pressures.
The Newham Recorder will continue to share updates and ways to support the campaign in print and online at www.newhamrecorder.co.uk.
AAA will also feature the appeal across its social media channels on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
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