Amicus, our Sixth Form charity organisation, excitedly launched Leighton Park’s cherished Christmas tradition, the Christmas Toys and Teens Appeal, on the morning of Monday 25th November. The initiative involves the LP community gifting toys and presents to less fortunate children in Reading who might not otherwise receive them this Christmas. The charity campaign is run by Reading Family Aid and Leighton Park School actively participates year after year, creating a strong partnership to help address the pressing needs of families facing challenges during this giving season.
Our Reading Family Aid representative, Laura, joined us for Collect to talk students and staff through the initiative whilst reminding the School of which items can be donated. Laura emphasised “At least a quarter of Reading’s children live in poverty, just beyond the school gates are families in acute poverty. What should be a time of joy, just isn’t for those people. What we at Reading Family Aid want to do, with Leighton Park’s help, is to put joy back into these families’ Christmases, put a smile back on those children’s faces by giving them Christmas presents”.
Following collection from Leighton Park, volunteers will sort the toys and gifts by age and gender in a church hall before other charity organisations, such as Homestart, will choose which gifts are suitable for the families they are supporting this Christmas. Last year the charity collected enough toys for 2,500 children to enjoy gifts.
The Christmas spirit at Leighton Park School encompasses more than just happiness, family, and presents; it also includes a dedication to Quaker Values and a compassionate awareness of those in less fortunate circumstances. Every year, as they reflect on their own advantages, they welcome the chance to give back to others, reaffirming Leighton Park’s commitment to making a strong and positive impact to community actions and service.
Donations can be made before the collection date (9th December), to Student Services in Old School at Leighton Park. All gifts and toys must be either brand new or ‘as new’ meaning the gift is clean, complete and working. Battery operated items are accepted however items that contain a plug or need charging will not be accepted. We thank everyone in our community for giving back.
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