A MELKSHAM Slimming World group stepped in for Father Christmas last month to give toys to local children living in poverty.
An estimated £500 worth of toys, books and games were collected in two weeks by Slimming World members in the lead-up to Christmas.
The donations were collected by a local branch of the Salvation Army, to be distributed as Christmas presents to children living in poverty.
Major Dawn McGarvey from the Salvation Army said, “These donations are lovely, and it’s amazing what they have achieved in two weeks! These donations will be used for Christmas presents for children that are referred to us from social services, including some children in Melksham.
“Donations like this make such a difference – I met one mother who had to tell her children that Christmas was cancelled because she couldn’t afford any presents – when I told her what we could do, she had tears in her eyes.”
Slimming World consultant, Carmen Middleditch said, “It’s absolutely amazing what the group has achieved – what a lovely bunch they are! The idea to collect and donate toys came off the back of our recent collection for the foodbank – and was suggested by one of the group members.
“One in three children live in poverty in this country, which is a sad reflection of our society – we are the fifth richest country in the world. So this collection is our small way of helping.”
Carmen’s Slimming World group meets every Friday at Melksham Guides’ hut, off Bath Road, at 9.30am and 11.30am. Call 07828 487569 for more information.
