Every Christmas BCM distributes gifts to 3,000 children in our city who would otherwise not receive presents. It is a mammoth task that relies on the generosity of many people who give toys, energy and time to ensure each child referred to us receives a sack of gifts on Christmas morning.
The ToyLink project
Thousands of toys, books and puzzles are generously donated by churches, schools and companies as well as individuals. All these toys are then checked and sorted into age categories for boys and girls. Social Services, other agencies and our own staff refer families in need to BCM and our team logs the name, age and gender of each child. Hordes of volunteers wrap continuously through November and December. They carefully choose and wrap 4 gifts for each child and the parcels are then put in a sack with a Christmas card and booklet ready for delivery.
Delivering the sacks around Birmingham is another huge task, requiring complex route planning and a great deal of manpower. But it is a joy to relieve these families of the financial strains of Christmas and to do our best to ensure that Birmingham’s children in need receive Christmas presents. After Christmas, our staff and volunteers, often alongside local churches, follow up with a family visit.
Get involved
Donate a toy
We need lots of new toys, books and puzzles for children aged 0-15 for this project. For full details on what to give, download the ToyLink project toy donation information. If you would like to donate a toy or hold a toy collection for us at your church, school or workplace, please bring donations to the BCM Resource Centre at The Clock Tower, 2 Langdon Street, Birmingham B9 4BP or call 0121 766 6603 if you need us to pick up a large collection of toys.
Give time
If you, your church or group can help sort, wrap or deliver toys in November and December, call 0121 766 6603 or email office@birminghamcitymission.co.uk
