The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Family Appeal is underway again this year. It is one of Northern Ireland’s largest and longest running Christmas present appeals.
The Salvation Army and Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) have teamed up once more for the Family Appeal. This will help to bring festive cheer to underprivileged children and families throughout the province.
Last year’s appeal distributed around 50,000 gifts to children across Northern Ireland. This was made possible by the generosity of local people and organisations.
In Ballymena, Salvation Army Lieutenants Chris and Lucy Still say the aim of the Family Appeal is to make sure no child goes without a gift at Christmas. They say:
“We’re grateful to the generosity and support of the public in Ballymena and across Northern Ireland. Without that support there would be no Family Appeal. We want to make sure that all families are able to share the joy of opening presents on Christmas morning.”
Pauline Brown, regional manager for St Vincent de Paul in Northern Ireland, said:
“The Family Appeal is a vital part of our yearly calendar and really helps us meet the needs of children across Northern Ireland.”
You can donate now to this year’s Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Family Appeal.
Gift donations for children aged from new-born to 16 years can be made at any branch of The Salvation Army or SVP NI. Also this year, Homebase at Junction One in Antrim is a drop-off point for gifts. You can donate at various locations around Ballymena and many other towns around the province. Look out for Family Appeal posters in your area. All gifts must be new and unwrapped. The appeal would welcome donations for older boys and girls such as gift tokens, board games, selection boxes, and toiletries.
Go to the Salvation Army website here where you can find more details of where you can donate in your local appeal.
If you are eligible for support from the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Family Appeal, contact Lieutenants Chris and Lucy Still on 028 2565 5233 for guidance notes and an application form.