Festive appeal enjoys best year yet

Cash Providers in Wellington has been collecting toys for youngsters since 2015.

This Christmas around £2,000 worth of gifts have been donated from the store thanks to the generosity of local people.

“We are overwhelmed by the response of the Wellington community this year – especially as things are tough for many people,” said David Ford, deputy manager of Cash Providers in New Street.

He explained that the scheme started when they held a raffle to support a customer’s daughter who was being treated for a medical condition.

“It was brilliant as we collected £600 for the hospital and from then on we started doing the appeal every year.

“We promote it on social media and use word of mouth via our customers and other organisations and companies in Wellington, asking for toys and donations.

“This is our biggest year – the total was boosted by the ‘Park Idol’ event in Wellington which raised over £600 and pushed us way over our usual target.”

He and his team have just taken the toys, as well as gifts for the staff, to Princess Royal Telford where their ‘children’s play team’ will distribute them to young patients there and at Shrewsbury Hospital, women’s refuges and children in care.

Sally Themans, from Love Wellington, said:: “We’re always so amazed at David and the team from Cash Providers who make it their mission to ensure children in hospital and in our community are given a special treat at Christmas – their zeal is contagious and the whole Wellington business community join in. 

“It’s a great reflection of how Wellington businesses and residents come together for a common cause – especially at this special time of year.”