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Belfast Central Mission (BCM) has a longstanding tradition of supporting people in need in Belfast and beyond through Christmas Appeals, dating back as far as the early 20th century.
For over 31 years the Christmas Toy Appeal has taken place in its modern format and 25 of those years it has been known as the Giving Tree Appeal. BCM has worked in partnership with SVP and the Department for Communities (DfC), reaching people in need in Belfast and beyond.
Over these years we have worked with many collaborators and supporters. These have included local churches, businesses, and government departments and without this support the Giving Tree Appeal would not be the success that it is.
As we open the BCM Toy Appeal for 2025 our focus remains the same, along with the Department for Communities (DfC), to support families in need across all communities in Belfast and beyond to experience the magic of Christmas.
We can only do this through the generosity of staff from Northern Ireland Civil Service, individuals, churches, and businesses from across Northern Ireland.
Can you imagine being a single mum, virtually homeless, moving into temporary accommodation with a young child just weeks before Christmas?
Last year, a single mum and her 9-year-old son moved from a hotel into temporary housing just before Christmas. With essentials ruined in storage, buying toys was impossible. Thanks to generous donations (toys or money), they received a toy bag filled with joy.
BCM works with over 50 partner organisations across Belfast and beyond to ensure toys reach families most in need.
“Huge generosity and kindness. Very hardworking staff and volunteers. Well organized programme.” Gillian, Life NI
You can help make Christmas brighter for families in need like this by donating to the 2025 Appeal.
Your donation will be used solely for purchasing gifts and vouchers for children and young people*. BCM, the Department for Communities and our many volunteers give up their time and skills to make the Appeal happen each and every year. We could not make it happen without your support in raising vital funds which allow us to buy toys and gifts, alongside directly donated gifts from our partners.
“Organised, experienced, the support you offer to families is amazing and really does make a difference. The number of referrals you can do is staggering. Collection of parcels is so smooth and well organised.” Jenny, Shankill Sure Start
Why It Matters
Christmas can be a difficult time for many families. Your support brings hope and helps ensure that no child wakes up without a gift - and no parent feels the pressure of choosing between bills and Christmas joy. In 2024, nearly 2,000 children received toy bags filled by volunteers with a main toy, novelty gifts, stationery, hats, scarves, crafts, books and more.
“BCM Toy Appeal programme is the real Santa” – Adnan, Northern Ireland Somalia Association
Every gift brings hope, dignity, and a little Christmas joy.
* after JustGiving processing fees