Where to give soft toys?

DueMarch11

Hi all

DD has a load of soft toys/teddies that she really doesnt need, want to give some away but not sure where to? First thought was the local childrens hospital but Ive heard they get loads of stuff and end up chucking stuff away. Any suggestions on where else they could go please?

Thanks

DM11

Sagz_2

If any are past their best and not suitable for children then I'm sure your local dogs home would love them.

LMCD

why don't you contact your local churches to see if missionaries are appealing for toys?

DueMarch11

Theyre in good condition, hardly used in fact, they just sit in a box in her bedroom. Thanks I'll contact the churches

jackomdj

do you have any schools near you that are not mainstream? My friend teaches in a school for children with behavioural issues & she loves getting our old soft toys.

foreign_correspondent

DueMarch11 wrote: »

Hi all

DD has a load of soft toys/teddies that she really doesnt need, want to give some away but not sure where to? First thought was the local childrens hospital but Ive heard they get loads of stuff and end up chucking stuff away. Any suggestions on where else they could go please?

Thanks

DM11

Yes, a few years ago as part of my role I ended up managing donations in a children and young people's hospital - soft toys cannot be used, (neither can second hand toys) for infection control reasons, so please dont send them there.

I used to end up loading the car up myself, to stop them from going in the waste disposal, and taking loads to two local charities, one which supported families in povery/crisis etc, and the other which was working with women and children who had been victims of domestic abuse.

Often children who have been forced to flee domestic abuse have to leave everything behind, and christmas can be a pretty bleak time for them and their mums.

It may be worth ringing your local womens aid, or shelter to see if they can advise of projects where these toys can reach children who really need them - these kids are so often overlooked, sadly.