As we announced earlier in the month, today saw the launch of the Isle of Wight Christmas Toy Appeal.
The brainchild of Deborah and Daniel Rooke, the campaign which launched last year, aims to give an extra Christmas present to children who are sick, life limited, bereaved, caring for a disabled parent or whose parents simply can’t afford to buy presents for them this year.
Sainsbury’s running alternative toy appeal
There are many drop-off points around the Island, but one that you may have been familiar with last year is not included this time.
It was surprising to hear this year that Sainbury’s have decided to partner with the Wave 105 appeal rather than the specific Isle of Wight appeal.
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s told OnTheWight today,
“We receive many requests to support local charities at Christmas. This year we decided to support the Wave 105 appeal which will benefit charities on the Isle of Wight and across the south coast”.
John Brookes, marketing director from Wave105, got in touch to add,
“Every toy that we get from the appeal at Sainsbury’s Isle of Wight will be distributed to children on the Isle of Wight.”
Be aware of the different appeals
Organisers of the Isle of Wight Christmas Toy Appeal are keen to ensure that Islanders are aware of the difference between the two appeals.
Obviously both appeals are worthy campaigns and helping children, but as toys were able to be dropped off with Sainsbury’s last year for the Island appeal, Deborah and Daniel didn’t want residents doing the same this year thinking their donations were going to the Island appeal.
Find out more about the Isle of Wight Christmas Toy Appeal‘s drop-off points.
Article updates: 8pm: Quote from John Brookes added to the article
