Lidl launches Christmas toy banks to help struggling UK families this Christmas

The supermarket launched a Christmas collecting toy donations from stores across the UK.

From Thursday, November 3, lidl will launch toy banks in its stores nationwide. Customers will be able to drop off new and unopened toys and games, to give to children who need help in their area.

Donations can be anything – from a small stocking filler to something bigger. Items sought include toys, games, books, puzzles, and arts and crafts, for all ages.

The toys will then be collected by local charities taking part in Lidl’s ‘Feed it Back’ programme, coordinated by Neighbourly, alongside the food they collect each week. They will then be donated through local charities and community groups such as food banks and community centres.

Ryan McDonnell, Managing Director of Lidl GB, said: “We have always believed strongly that each of our stores should have a positive impact on their community. This year, we wanted to find a meaningful way to help these communities. So we listened to the 1,500 local charities, food banks and community groups we partner with and heard clearly what they needed: food, toys and access to funds.

“As a company, we are proud to be able to meet these three needs. We’re launching toy banks in all our stores, pledging 1 million meals and making £250,000 available for charity through a donation from Neighborly and our community fund.

“Our hope is that by rolling out toy donation points, we are making it easier for customers who can, to donate directly to good local causes by giving them a small way to make a real difference and help those who need it most.”

Lidl toy banks will be accepting donations from Thursday November 3 until Friday December 16, when all toys will be collected for distribution.

Charities, community groups and food banks can register their interest now to receive donations of surplus food and toys this Christmas on the Neighborly website.