The Bridges shopping centre in Sunderland is calling on shoppers to spread some festive cheer by donating gifts to charity Love, Amelia’s Christmas Toy Appeal, which the centre is proudly supporting until December 21.
Shoppers are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys, games or special gifts for children from birth to 18 years old. The local charity also welcomes donations for parents and carers, helping families across the region enjoy the Christmas they deserve. All contributions can be left at the donation point located next to the kiosk at the Bridges’ Christmas Grotto.
The appeal has already received its first donations from Amelie, the nine-year-old daughter of Centre Director Karen Eve, and her friend Nell, both from Wynyard. The thoughtful duo spent the past few weeks making and selling handmade bracelets to save money specifically to buy gifts for the appeal.
Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, said: “We see the incredible work that Love, Amelia does year-round for families across the North East, and we’re proud to play our part this Christmas. We understand that this time of the year can be difficult for many, and we hope that with the generosity of our shoppers, we can make a difference to families.”
Karen added: “I’m also very proud of my daughter Amelie and her friend Nell for their contribution to the appeal using their earned money through their creative initiatives.”
The charity was founded in 2019 by Steph and Phill Capewell in memory of their daughter, Amelia Capewell, who died when she was just 12 minutes old. Love, Amelia offers support to families experiencing poverty and hardship across the North East.
Steph Capewell, Founder and Chief Executive of Love, Amelia said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support of the Bridges and Sunderland shoppers this Christmas. At Love, Amelia we believe that no child or family should go without, that’s why our Toy Appeal is so important - no child should wake up on Christmas morning without a gift.”
The centre is open for late night shoppers until 7pm every Thursday, and daily from Monday 15 December until Tuesday 23 December. The last date for Toy Appeal donations is Sunday 21 December.