By Tim Nuttall
An opportunity for local individuals and agencies to find out more about Withernsea’s recently launched toy bank is being held at the Shores centre this Friday, March 10.
Kick-started thanks to a collection of toys organised by the town’s branch of MKM Building Supplies, and the fundraising efforts of 13-year-old fundraiser Phoebe Spokes, stocks at the toy bank have since been further augmented with generous donations from the local community.
Last October, Phoebe set herself a challenge to walk back and forth along the town’s promenade, with the aim of covering 15 miles over three days. However, such was her determination that the youngster achieved her target in a single day – raising £200 through donations and sponsorship in the process.
Named after the girl whose selfless fundraising helped to start the collection, the Phoebe’s Wish Toy Bank is accessible to families and individuals in need through referral from various established agencies including the Children’s Centre, police and ward councillors.
A demand for items over the festive period saw a large number of gifts being successfully circulated to those most in need, leading to the idea of creating an all-year-round provision to support disadvantaged children in the local area, aged up to 18, or 25 years old if they have special educational needs.
Shores CEO Jayne Nendick said: “Since the launch of the toy bank, we have been inundated with generous donations of books, toys and games from our amazing community. These items are destined to help put a smile on the faces of those who are struggling.
“To help draw attention to these resources, and to make people aware of what support we have on offer, we are hosting this Friday’s drop-in as a means of getting people through the doors at Shores to promote the toy bank to local individuals and organisations who can help us distribute donated items to those most in need.”
For further information about the toy bank, visit the Shores centre this Friday, March 10, between 1pm and 3pm at 29-31 Seaside Road, Withernsea. Alternatively, you can contact Shores on 01964 615190.
