West Lothian pupils launch Christmas toy donation drive for local charity

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Pupils at Armadale Academy have launched a Christmas toy appeal with donations handed over to local charity River Kids.Founded in 2005, the children’s charity had been running a Christmas Toy Appeal since 2009 which aims at providing toys to families across West Lothian who might be struggling financially over the festive period.A number of fifth year pupils at the Acadmey decided this year to launch their own appeal for River Kids with the results being applauded by both the school and the charity.Speaking to the Courier, River Kids charity manager Jack Christine commented: “It’s a brilliant thing that the pupils are doing and we’re incredibly grateful to them for all their efforts.“West Lothian has a remarkable community spirit and we’re suprised each and every time by the generosity of the people.

They really dig deep, even this year where many people are struggling, the response has been incredible.”He added: “Last year we handed out around 2600 bags of toys and this year we’re expecting that figure to rise to around 3000.“Unfortunately with the financial climate we’re all facing just now, we’re getting more and more referrals but the response to the Toy Appeal has been really heartwarming.”Armadale Academy teacher Karyn Reilly added: “The fifth year Personal Development class were all really keen on doing a toy drive from Christmas.“Just in West Lothian, one in four children grow up in poverty and especially this year times are tough.“They’ve been brilliant and the response has been overwhelming.

It’s been really heartwarming that so many staff, pupils and parents have donated gifts that will be put to good use for children around West Lothian this Christmas.” Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian