Annual Toy and Gift Appeal a huge success

STRABANE Enterpise Agency, together with tenants of the Orchard Road Industrial Estate, partnered once again this year to help bring a little festive joy.

The Toy/Gift Appeal which was launched last month was arranged to help local families in need at this difficult time of the year.

A large number of gifts were donated by local businesses and members of the public, with the donations collected by the Social Services Family & Childcare Team in Strabane, who will now distribute the gifts to those who are most in need within the local area.

Natalie Sils, a social worker from the Family & Childcare Team, said: "This is a difficult time for everyone so we really appreciate every donation.

"We believe every child should have a present to open on Christmas morning."

Her colleague, Alicia McBride, said the team had been "blown away" by the generosity shown and thanked everyone who contributed.

"Thank-you to everyone who helped out by giving donations," she said.

“This will make a child's Christmas.

"We are blown away by the generosity of those who have donated.

"This will help many families within the local district."

Strabane Enterprise Agency chief executive officer, Orla McNulty, said the team were proud to host the appeal for a second year in-a-row and said the donations will help make a real difference.

"We are proud to be the hosts of the Toy/Gift Appeal for the second year running," she said.

"All donations were given to the Family & Childcare Team Strabane in which they will be distributed to local families within the Strabane district.

"Thanks to the tenants of Orchard Road Industrial Estate, the local business community and members of the general public for their generous donations that blew us away."