The City Council is distributing thousands of free gifts to struggling families in Milton Keynes this Christmas.
More than 5,000 items were donated by Argos and Sainsbury’s, including brand new toys, puzzles, games, crafts and soft toys suitable for boys and girls, from newborns to teenagers.
The donated products were delivered to Milton Keynes City Council last week, with everything then sorted into age-appropriate packs for collection.
In the run up to Christmas, social workers have been busy creating packages for families identified as being in need. The gifts are given to parents and carers along with wrapping paper, enabling them to be involved with checking and preparing the presents.
Surplus items have been shared with the City Council’s Children and Family Centres who have been delivering parcels to their local communities. Additionally, hundreds of crafts and toys have been donated to schools in MK and Baby Basics, who are delivering packs to families with children under 5.
Cllr Zoe Nolan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families said: “We’re so grateful for this generous donation from Argos and Sainsbury’s. These wonderful gifts will make a huge difference to families who are struggling in the run up to Christmas.
"I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in making this happen, from our facilities staff and delivery drivers to the FAST team and our passionate social workers who care deeply about the children they support."
Cllr Jane Carr, Cabinet Member for Tackling Inequalities and Child Poverty said:“I’ve spoken to young people who would rather not receive gifts this year because they understand their parents are struggling.
"It’s heart-breaking to hear how some families are making tough choices between paying the bills and putting food on the table.
"Thanks to this generosity from local business and the knowledge of our social care teams, we can help many children to have a brighter Christmas.”
