From sharks to rabbits and sheep, a wide variety of stuffed animals will be available for adoption today at Phillipstown Community Hub.
Phillipstown Community Center Charitable Trust manager Viviana Zanetti said it’s great that people can get a special gift for their kids in the weeks leading up to the holiday season.
“Christmas can be a really stressful season for a lot of families,” Zanetti said.
“There are so many expectations, like gifts, parties. So it’s (good) to give them a chance to have something nice.
“Maybe these toys are pre-loved, but they’re fun.”
Rowley Resource Center manager Evelyn Kenne agreed, saying there is always a need for toys, especially at Christmas.
“It’s great to be able to give (the toy) to those in need who can’t afford to buy toys for their kids.”
The toys were delivered two weeks ago by the Christchurch South Community Patrol to the Community Center, Information Center and Hoon Hay Food Bank.
So far, all the stuffed animals in the information center have been given away to the community.
Hoon Hay Food Bank founder Corrin Webster said he and his partner Nicole will use the donated toys as part of their Christmas gift campaign, with nominations and solicitations opening next week.
“We will have over 500 gifts to hand out.
“There are so many more people out there who are a part of this making it all possible and please know from the bottom of our hearts that we thank them all for their donations.”
Patrol leader Ken Bye said the mission to bring smiles to deserving children began in November when a patrol came up with the idea of collecting beloved stuffed animals to donate.
The project quickly gained support from other patrols and the community. Within a month, the group collected more than 100 plush toys.
“We thought part of our job was to provide safety and support to our community. And we thought it was something fun and easy to do,” Bye said.
“We’re thinking of expanding it next year, but we’ll see how it goes this year.”
- Contact the community hub by sending an email [email protected] or visit 39A Nursery Road, Phillipstown, or call the office – 022 476 7227 / 03 379 3256