West Lothian Christmas Toy Appeal

Description

For more than 40 years, the West Lothian Christmas Toy Appeal has helped ensure that local children experiencing hardship can enjoy the excitement and joy of Christmas. Managed by River Kids since 2011, the appeal supports children and families facing difficult circumstances, providing gifts and essential items so that no child feels forgotten during the festive season.

What began as a Christmas campaign has grown into a year-round service due to the incredible generosity of local communities, businesses and volunteers. Today, the appeal not only provides gifts at Christmas but also helps children celebrate their birthdays with dignity and joy.

Families are referred to the appeal by organisations including schools, social workers, health visitors, housing associations, family centres, homeless services and Citizens Advice. Every donation helps us reach children who need support the most.

How You Can Help

We're looking for support from local businesses, organisations and individuals to help make Christmas special for children across West Lothian.

You can help by:

Donating new toys, games and gifts for children and young people of all ages.

Making a financial contribution to help purchase gifts where they are needed most.

Organising a workplace collection or festive fundraising activity.

Helping spread the word about the appeal within your networks.

Every donation, big or small, helps ensure that children and young people wake up to gifts on Christmas morning and feel the magic of the festive season.

By supporting the 2026 West Lothian Christmas Toy Appeal, you'll be helping to create lasting memories for local families and bringing hope, happiness and excitement to children who may otherwise go without.

Together, we can make sure every child has something to celebrate this Christmas.

Find out more about River Kids' wider work and campaigns here.