Londoners are being encouraged to pick up an extra toy for a needy child when they are out doing their holiday shopping.
Bins for the Rockin’ the Stockin’ Toy Drive, presented by Classic Rock Free 98-1 and the Salvation Army, will be setup at centre court at White Oaks Mall beginning Saturday. People are asked to drop off new, unwrapped toys for kids ranging in age from infant to 16.
"Unfortunately the need is greater than ever, so your donations are needed more than ever," said Becky Malacaria, marketing director at Classic Rock Free 98-1. "An emphasis will be placed on collecting gifts for newborns and teens because they tend to be missed. We suggest items like diapers, hats and mitts, gift cards, personal hygiene kits, hairdryers, footballs, and board games. It doesn't have to be costly."
The donation bins will remain in the mall for five weeks with the final toy pick up slated for December 24.
"If you're already in the mall it's easy to pick up a little extra something and drop it in the bin. The Salvation Army will make sure that the gifts make it into the hands of a child in need in time for Christmas," said Malacaria.
The Salvation Army assists roughly 5,800 London households over the holiday season. That amounts to more than 6,000 bags of toys that will be required to meet the demand.
The toy drive kickoff coincides with the arrival of Santa Claus at White Oaks Mall, with the donation bins placed close to the jolly man himself. To help ramp up support, Classic Rock Free 98-1's Ryan Valdron will be doing a live broadcast from the mall on December 9.
"Every child deserves to wake up on Christmas morning to find a present under the tree," said Malacaria. "Children are innocent and deserve to feel the magic of Christmas no matter what their family situation."
