A Newtown company has ensured that 50 children from struggling local families will receive a gift this Christmas.
As Rees Astley Ltd will be celebrating its 50th birthday in 2019 the company decided to donate a toy for each year it has been in business.
The donation was made to Newtown Salvation Army’s Christmas Toy Appeal which is supporting local families who are struggling to buy gifts for their children this Christmas.
“So far this winter the Salvation Army in Newtown has received 160 referrals for children’s toys, so our 50 donations will go some way to meeting their target,” said Alun Hughes, a Rees Astley Ltd director. “We were very keen to support a charity that benefits local people.
Colleen O’Brien, Newtown Salvation Army shop manager, said: “We were completely bowled over by their donation. When we get a generous donation like this, it’s almost as overwhelming for us as it is for the families that receive the toys.
“The families are struggling for different reasons. In addition to heart-wrenching stories, there are many examples of hardship. Often people can be working full-time, but their overheads don’t permit any luxuries in life.
“The toys that we provide take the pressure off parents and make a huge difference to the families.”
In addition to the toys, Newtown Salvation Army is collecting food for 80 hampers this Christmas. “Newtown people are unbelievably generous,” added Colleen.
“There are people working tirelessly and thinking of others in need.”
Photo: Alun Hughes from Rees Astley Ltd presents the 50 toys to Nicola Wain (left) and Katie Sinclair from Newtown Salvation Army.
