John Healey MP once again joined Rotherham Families First at Parkgate Shopping for the launch of their annual Christmas Toy Appeal. The locally run charity, headed up by Ann Levick, provide vital support to hundreds of families across the borough all year round.
The Toy Appeal collects new toys and gifts through donations from local people, businesses and schools, and are distributed by volunteers to children across Rotherham.
Last Christmas, the charity supported hundreds of families are hoping to do the same this year.
John Healey, said:
“Last year, I was astonished to see the amount of donations made by people across our area. Without them the appeal wouldn’t be possible.
“Families First go the extra mile to make sure no child goes without a present at Christmas time.
“If you can get involved with the Toy Appeal, I really encourage you to pick an age tag from the trees at Parkgate and make someone’s Christmas special this year.
“Thank you to all the volunteers, and to Ann, for their year-round dedication to our community.”
As well as organising the annual Rotherham Toy Appeal, volunteers at Families First dedicate countless hours each week to help distribute emergency clothing packs, homewares, and second-hand toys to people aged 0-99 across Rotherham who are without basic items.
They received charity status in 2024 and have received a King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the equivalent of an MBE and the highest award for voluntary groups.
For more information about the toy appeal or donating items to Rotherham Families First, you can contact organiser Ann Levick via email at ann.familiesfirst@gmail.com.