We help children living with poverty and other disadvantages. They may be young carers, for example; or living in a family affected by drug taking, physical abuse, chronic illness or disability; or they may have a disability or illness themselves. We distribute toys at Christmas to children aged 0-16 through our Toys & Teens Appeal. If our funds permit, we also provide outings throughout the year for children and their families who couldn't afford to go otherwise.

Why the community needs us

Reading seems so prosperous that many people might find it hard to imagine there are desperately deprived families here.

In 2022/23, the number of children living in poverty increased by 100,000 to 4.3 million children. That's 30% of children in the UK.

In Reading this equates to 5,261 children aged under 16, an estimated 15.5% in 2021. According to the Department for Work and Pensions data. All the families referred to us are in genuine need. We aim to offer them some relief from the harsh day-to-day realities of their lives - some of the extras that social services and other agencies can't provide.

Our impact on the community

In 2023 we provided nearly 700 sacks full of toys and presents for over 2500 children in Reading and the surrounding area. Over 15,000 new and nearly new toys were donated. We also filled coaches with excited families for outings to Odds Farm, Beale Park, Bournemouth and Camp Mohawk!