Stratford Christmas toy appeal helps more than 2,000 people

The Stratford Shopping Centre campaign, run in partnership with the Kevin Jenkins OBE Newham Christmas Toy Appeal and charity Ambition Aspire Achieve, supported more than 2,000 people across Newham.

In 2025, 1,726 children received stockings tailored to their personal needs and interests.

The appeal focused on helping families living in emergency housing or on very low incomes, for whom the rising cost of living has meant choosing between essentials like food and clothing or buying Christmas gifts.

Tony Peters, centre manager at Stratford Shopping Centre, said: "Seeing the generosity of our shoppers last year was truly heart-warming. For many families in our community, this appeal is the difference between a child having a gift to open or going without.

"We are delighted with the 2025 results and the relief this support has provided to families during a challenging time."

One social worker shared the story of a family fleeing domestic violence who, thanks to the appeal, were able to give their children presents to open on Christmas morning.

Another parent said the gifts were of a quality they could never have afforded, even with a year of saving.

The appeal, which earned the shopping centre a place on the 2025 Roll of Honour, was praised for easing financial pressure and fostering a sense of community.

Gifts donated at the centre were distributed by Ambition Aspire Achieve to children most in need across the borough.

A parent who benefited from the scheme said: "I am incredibly grateful for your kindness and for all the hard work of your volunteers. Thank you for truly making a difference."

The centre is already encouraging the community to get involved in the 2026 Christmas Toy Appeal, which will launch this autumn.

For more details about the appeal or to find out how to contribute next year, visit www.stratfordcentre.com. The centre is also active on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and X (@StratfordCentre).