Hundreds of families in London this year are to receive Christmas gifts from Peabody’s annual food and toy appeal that supports hundreds of families across London and the south east.

Peabody residents who are struggling during the festive season are nominated by local community workers to receive food parcels with festive treats. Families with children also receive toys which are wrapped and ready to go under their tree.

Thanks to generous donations from Peabody’s partners including BNP Paribas, Wates and VINCI, £16,000 worth of food hampers and shopping vouchers are being sent out to over 250 families across London and the south east. Over 500 children in Waltham Forest, Hackney and Thamesmead will be receiving toys, wrapped and delivered by volunteers.

Waltham Forest resident Maryna received a food hamper and toys for her daughter. She said: “I am very happy. It’s a brilliant gift, thank you so much. My daughter opened them early yesterday. One was a learning story and the other a game to learn about space. Thank you for the support at this difficult time.”

Hackney resident Nichola said: “I’ve lived on the Pembury estate in Hackney for over 10 years. This is the second year that I’ve received gifts as part of the Peabody Toy Appeal. I’ve got four kids between the ages of four and 17 so the presents are very helpful for our family. They all really enjoy opening them on Christmas day – they’re always surprised and very happy to see their presents under the tree.”
Stephen Burns, Peabody’s Executive Director Care & Communities said: “We know that Christmas can be a difficult time for some families, and we want to help them to have a happy festive season. We are grateful to our supply chain and partners who donate to our annual food and toy appeal, giving generously every year. A special thanks too to Peabody’s staff volunteers who give up their time to wrap gifts, check in on families and deliver parcels to people in the local community.”