Barking and Dagenham Council has teamed up with The Kindness Offensive and a group of local partners to bring joy to children across the borough through their annual Toy Drive.
Tens of thousands of toys and gifts are being handed out to families - in the borough and beyond - who need a little extra help this festive season.
The Kindness Offensive, known for their record-breaking generosity projects, is a charity hub doing good across London. Having channelled over £2m in donations directly through their hub, year on year, they’ve shared festive cheer through gift-giving in the lead up to Christmas.
Barking and Dagenham council has provided the space to operate, bringing this amazing work to the borough, while The Kindness Offensive has led the charge coordinating donations from the council’s warehouse and helping to ensure every gift finds the right home. Working alongside them, local partners, staff, councillors and volunteers have been busy sorting, packing, and preparing gifts ready to be distributed in time for Christmas.
Last week saw a visit to Becontree Primary School with an army of volunteers and red bus full of gifts just for the children. The school hall was adorned with Christmas decorations anticipating a surprised group of children whose faces lit up upon seeing a sea of gifts waiting to be opened.
Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said: "I want to thank The Kindness Offensive for partnering with the council to bring people and local groups together to support our communities. We know the cost of living means people are still struggling. Christmas can be a really tough time for some families who might otherwise be left without. It was so wonderful to see the children’s faces light up as they unwrapped their gifts and I hope to see much more of this over the coming days.”
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, added: “The generosity and kindness shown by donors and volunteers means that families across Barking and Dagenham, and beyond, can look forward to a brighter festive season. I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved for making this possible. This is a brilliant example of communities coming together to make sure every child feels the magic of Christmas.”
David Goodfellow, Founder of the Kindness Offensive, said: “It was great to be part of team Barking and Dagenham over the festive period. The council’s inviting and supportive approach to charity partnerships, coupled with the grassroots enthusiasm of local people, has really come together to make something wonderful happen. I’m grateful to have been part of it.”
Marie Ziane, Headteacher of Becontree Primary School, said: “What an incredible afternoon we all had when The Kindness Offensive and the council descended on Becontree Primary School! We talk about kindness every single day with our children and this event really did bring kindness to life! The look of surprise and amazement on our children's faces was priceless; all thanks to a team of dedicated and wonderful volunteers for making it happen. We can't thank you all enough.”
Families receiving gifts have been identified through local support networks, schools, and community services, helping to reach those who will benefit most.