The Toys and Tins appeal is a joint venture between BBC Radio Norfolk and The Salvation Army. 

Since it was formed in 1865 The Salvation Army has always responded to need in a very practical way. Today people approach our centres (churches) throughout the year to obtain food and warm clothes when their circumstances are difficult. The Christmas Appeal for Toys & Tins is additional to the regular service and actively seeks referrals from agencies instead of waiting for people to come to us.

The aim of the appeal is to distribute gifts of food and toys to families and individuals in need. The scheme is supported by fundraising events, personal donations, gift services held by churches, projects within schools and offices, and direct appeal to the public during the Christmas period. It is run mostly with volunteers.

Toys & Tins commenced within the city of Norwich over 30 years ago but has over time extended throughout the county of Norfolk. The appeal is launched by BBC Radio Norfolk in late November and runs until Christmas. During that period gifts of toys, tins and donations are collected in the ‘sleigh’ at the Forum, Salvation Army Corps and charity shops, some branches of Roys and a selection of supermarkets and local shops, in addition to many other places including participating schools and churches.

How you can help the 2014 Appeal

We would welcome gifts of non-perishable foods and a little something nice for Christmas such chocolates, shortbread, and Christmas puddings. We also need toys and monetary donations.

Could you help by organising a local fund raising event or encourage your church or school to have a ‘gift service’ or fundraiser? If you would like to help collecting and packing at the Norwich warehouse or at local Salvation Army halls from early December, please contact the appeal secretary Frankie for a chat on 01603 724403.

Donate by text

Text giving is now available too. Just text the code TOYS88 and the amount you wish to give e.g. 'TOYS88 £5' - to 70070.

Full details can be seen on our web site: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/anglia and follow the link to ‘Toys & Tins’. Festive hampers and toys are distributed from centres across Norfolk.