Reading’s Access Self Storage has launched its annual charity collection, and is urging everyone to support its campaign.
More than 18,500 children’s toys have been collected since the annual Christmas campaign began nine years ago.
Last Christmas, gifts were distributed across dozens of charities, and this year’s collection will benefit Access Self Storage Reading nominated charity, Spread a Smile.
Local residents and customers can donate their new and unwrapped toys and gifts for Spread a Smile, and for the children and families that they support, at their closest store, or at any of the Access Self Storage locations around the country.
Spread a Smile’s Santa and his elves will distribute the toys and gifts to children and their families at the 30+ hospitals the charity supports, across the UK.
The visit from Santa and his helpers, or via a virtual grotto for children that can’t have in person visits, is the highlight of the year.
Oliver, the manager at Access Self Storage Reading said, “Just buying one extra gift for Spread a Smile this Christmas can make a real difference.
“We know times are hard for so many right now, but even something small for a child that is unwell in hospital, will help ‘spread a smile’ this Christmas.”
Jan Albert Fourie, head of operations at Access Self Storage, added: “Our stores work closely with their local communities and each year build upon this campaign.
“We hope that this 10th anniversary year will enable us to smash the 20,000 donated toys ceiling, and that children in hospital across the UK will be treated to a gift this year from our Christmas collection. If all our customers and our local communities get behind the campaign it will make a huge difference.”
Staff have begun collecting toys, and people are invited to bring their toy & gift donations to the Reading store until December 11, ahead of the charity collection and distribution in time for Christmas.
Lucy Jackson, chief executive of Spread a Smile, said: “Partnering with Access Self Storage, for the first time will mean we can spread even more magic this Christmas.
“It’s a precious time of year, and we know the Santa visits create unique and lasting memories.
“The support of the Access Self Storage teams, customers and their communities is truly priceless.”
Donations can be taken to Access Self Storage Reading at 62 Portman Rd.
