By Rebecca Hannant
A Halsham resident has been collecting presents to give to children this Christmas.
Shell Olushola realised that although this is traditionally a time of giving, this year will be different for many, and some young people in our area could wake up to find no presents under the tree.
So she set about trying to raise donations for a “sleigh” full of presents, and has visited various businesses up and down the country, collecting more than 150 books and toys ranging from dolls and dressing-up outfits to Lego sets.
The appeal was raised to another level after it was put on the Halsham village Facebook page and several residents dropped off items at her home, including some very high-end toys.
Shell said that the expensive toys would go to specific vulnerable adults in need that the Shores centre in Withernsea is aware of. The range of donated items is so broad, that everything will be used.
With help from Caroline Busse, the items were delivered and displayed to give the full impact to the volunteers at the community hub.
Shell said: “The staff were shocked, excited and amazed that this ‘sleigh’ load of toys had landed in the middle of Withernsea to help them deliver Christmas.”
A set of toys supported the Santa’s Grotto event on December 10, and the rest will be given to children to open on Christmas morning.
Shell added: “I am overwhelmed and humbled with the response received from the village.
“I cannot thank everyone enough for their donations and community spirit, to ensure that this year at least Santa will be able to keep his promise in Withernsea to every child and vulnerable adult under the umbrella of Shores: a present waiting for them under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning.”
