20 Dec Local community gives gift of Christmas to hundreds of children
Residents have given the gift of Christmas to hundreds of children by donating presents to the women’s refuge, homeless hostel, food banks and pre-schools in the borough.
Collection points were set up inside the Eastgate Shopping Centre, the Basildon Centre, and The Place and Wat Tyler Centre in Pitsea. Basildon Council teamed up with the Eastgate Shopping Centre to encourage members of the community to buy one extra gift, food item or piece of warm clothing for those less fortunate this festive season.
One big-hearted local business delivered a huge anonymous donation made up of two pallets of toys, accessories and books. Other items donated by generous residents include toiletries, cuddly toys, chocolates and DVDs.
Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Policy and Resources committee, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our residents. All of our collection bins have been overflowing with gifts and the huge anonymous donation we received was a real boost.
“I am absolutely delighted that we will be able to make a difference to so many lives this festive season. These gifts might not seem much but they will make Christmas Day a bit brighter for children and families who are unable to celebrate in the way they would love to.”
