A BABY bank is seeking donations to help spread some festive cheer for children this Christmas.

The Witney Baby Bank has teamed up with Home-Start Witney for a Christmas present appeal.

Donations of unwrapped new toys and gifts suitable for children aged up to 16 years of age are being sought.

The donations will then be wrapped and delivered to families during the holiday season.

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The baby bank’s founder, West Oxfordshire district councillor, Rosa Bolger said: “When we set up the baby bank we thought it might be a temporary measure to help families through the initial lockdown.

“It’s very clear now that this issue is not going away any time soon.

“We can continue to support families through the baby bank and hope that this Christmas gift initiative brings a little joy to our community, but ultimately, there needs to be more support in place for struggling families – more than can be provided by communities and volunteers. Support has to come from central government.”

Witney’s mayor and baby bank co-ordinator Joy Aitman added: “We know that we can rely on our generous and thoughtful Witney residents to contribute to our appeal. We want all the younger members of our community to have a very happy Christmas.”

Oxford Mail:

Part of a nationwide network, Home-Start Witney provides a range of support to families.

Family group co-ordinator Lisa West said: “We are delighted to be working in collaboration with the Witney Baby Bank on this wonderful initiative to help reach out to families and provide a helping hand at Christmas.

“This year the pandemic has brought added pressure to families. It is wonderful that despite everyone’s struggles the community is rallying round to offer a little extra help to others during the festive period.”

Drop off or send new unwrapped donations to the Witney Baby Bank at: 98 Eton Close, Witney, OX28 3GB.