Every year, Salvation Army Centres throughout the UK distribute parcels to needy families at Christmas time. Last year, we distributed 400 Food Parcels and 370 Toy Parcels through many different agencies across Gloucester and we are hoping to be able to do a similar number again this year. All the recipients are referred to us by Social Services and Family Centres to ensure our parcels go to the neediest families in our City.
A food parcel usually contains around 30 items including Hot Chocolate, Coffee, Tea Bags, Sugar, Cooking Sauces, Tinned Meat, Tinned Vegetables, Baked Beans, Soup, Custard, Rice Pudding, Jelly, Tinned Fruit, Jam, Breakfast Cereal.
We also include some treats such as Sweets, Biscuits & Mince Pies.
For the children's toy parcels, we cater for children from newborn babies to aged 16 years. Each parcel generally includes:
- A main Toy e.g.: board games, lego, dolls, barbie, playmobil, mechano, playdoh, trucks, cars, role-play things, educational toys etc. For the aged 13+ wallets, bags, watches, scarves/hats & gloves, footballs.
- A colouring in book & pens/pencils/crayon or stationery set (depending on age)
- A reading book
- A packet of sweets
- A soft toy for young children or toiletries for older children
If you would like to donate food or a toy to our appeal, please bring your donation to us on the corner of Eastgate Street, or drop them in to one of our Charity Shops located at 148 Eastgate Street or 22 The Oxbode by Monday 5th December 2016.