Lidl will accept toys at its 900 UK stores
(Picture: Lidl)In one of the saddest indications of upcoming economic turmoil and hardship for families across the UK supermarket discounter Lidl will launch a nationwide toy donation drive for underprivileged children this Christmas.
The initiative has been driven by new research, in partnership with charity Neighbourly, that found for 8 in 10 charities and community groups currently partnered with Lidl, toys and games were one of their most needed items to help serve their local communities over the festive period.
This was second only to food donations.
From Thursday November 3, Lidl will launch toy banks across its 900 stores nationwide. Customers will be able to drop off new and unopened toys and games, to be gifted to children that need support in their local area.
The supermarket said that donations could be anything - from a small stocking filler to something bigger. It will also be pledging one million meals to charities over the festive period.
Sought-after items include toys, games, books, puzzles, and arts and crafts, for a range of ages, according to the retailer.
Ryan McDonnell, boss of Lidl, said: “We are launching toy banks in all our stores, pledging one million meals and we will be making £250,000 available for charities through a Neighbourly donation and our community fund.
“Our hope is that by rolling out the toy donation points we are making it easier, for those customers who can, to donate directly to local good causes by giving them a small way to make a real difference and help those that need it the most.
Toys will be collected by local charities participating in Lidl’s ‘Feed it Back’ scheme, coordinated by Neighbourly, alongside the food they pick up weekly from the supermarket chain. They will then be donated via local charities and community groups such as food banks and community centres.
Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: ”Our latest community survey has highlighted the financial strain that many families are facing this winter. With local charities seeing a drop in both food and financial donations, any support that Lidl customers can give is going to be critical.
“For many families, Christmas gifts will be something they will struggle to afford, so a scheme like this which alleviates some of the worry for parents will make a huge difference.”
