IT won’t be a wonderful Christmas time for some children across Renfrewshire this year, but we are asking our generous readers to change that. 

The Gazette has teamed up with the Renfrewshire Christmas Toy Bank appeal to make sure no child wakes up on this special day without a present. 

In its second year, the brilliant cause was set up by Renfrew woman Lauren Roy-Sutherland after she realised families who were struggling to make ends meet couldn’t afford to splash the cash on gifts. 

Now, we are asking our charitable readers to spare a thought for those who might not get everything they wish for this year.

Lauren said: “Last year we weren’t sure how the Toy Bank would go. 

“We were overwhelmed with the generosity from the public and cannot thank everyone who donated enough.

“We were also overwhelmed with the number of referrals from the organisations that we work with, this year we are expecting a 20 per cent rise in referrals. 

“Last year showed us how much the Toy Bank was needed in our community and already this year referrals are coming in thick and fast. 

“If everyone reading this is able to donate just one toy or gift this could change a child’s Christmas in your area. 

“Without all your support none of this would be possible.” 

All you have to do is find the perfect gift and drop it off at collection points across Renfrewshire. 

The group will then distribute the presents to parents and carers of youngsters who have been referred by various charities, social workers, community groups and the Renfrewshire Foodbank.

The appeal issued 871 packages in 2018 to less fortunate children, thanks to the kindness of the community.

As part of our partnership, The Gazette has sponsored the Renfrewshire Christmas Toy Bank and provided funds towards its renting of a warehouse to sort, organise, and package your generous donations. 

Tom McConigley, group editor for The Gazette series, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this brilliant cause and hope our kind-hearted readers will once again give it their backing.

“Money can be tight for all of us but if we all spare a little it will go a long way to making Christmas Day extra special for struggling families. 

“We understand you might all be thinking of Hallowe’en but preparations are already well underway by the dedicated volunteers who will be giving their all to help.

“Every child deserves to have a great Christmas and that’s why we are supporting the Renfrewshire Christmas Toy Bank appeal.” 

Preparations are already well underway for this year’s appeal and drop-off points will be open across Renfrewshire from Saturday. 

All you need to do is pick up a gift and then leave it at any of the drop-off points in Renfrewshire. 

Here is the full list of locations: 

Renfrew

intu Braehead, Davidson’s Bar, Gavin Newlands MP office

Paisley 

The Old Swan, Gantry Paisley, Comicrazy Coffee Bar, Brew Paisley. C Allan & Son Accountancy Services Ltd, Mhairi Black MP office

Houston 

The Paper Shop

Johnstone 

Big Kids Little Learners, Tom Arthur MSP office

Linwood 

Tesco Superstore

All Renfrewshire Libraries