We collect and distribute thousands of toys and gifts to disadvantaged Reading children at Christmas. The toys are donated by businesses, churches, schools and generous members of the public. In 2013 we provided gifts for 1,600 children and teenagers. 70% of the children were under 8 years old. There's always a mismatch between the types of toys donated and the age and gender of the children awaiting toys, so your donation will be used to buy the extra toys we need.

We aim to give disadvantaged families a boost at Christmas, which can be such a difficult season if you have very little. We try to lighten the load for parents going through tough times, who are worried about being able to give their families a good Christmas. They see the delight on their children's faces as they open their presents. We hope that children who otherwise would have nothing to open, have the excitement of waking to a pile of gifts on Christmas morning.

Last year the generous folk of Reading donated thousands of gifts to our appeal, and many local businesses and organisations provided more goodies. We're very grateful to our major appeal sponsors - The Reading Chronicle, Radio 107fm, Big Yellow Self Storage, Rabbits Vehicle Hire and Austin Logistics. This year, with the help of all these kind people and our army of volunteers, we aim to give 1,750 Reading children a happier Christmas.