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For a second year, people across Northern Ireland are being urged to help ensure every child receives a present on Christmas day, by donating to the virtual Stuff a Bus toy appeal, which aims to raise at least £75,000.
Stuff A Bus Northern Ireland, which was launched by Translink in 2017, receives thousands of toys in a normal year, in aid of the Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul. But this December, to stay safe, the Stuff a Bus team will stay apart and is calling for online donations instead of the usual toy collection.
It is estimated that over 100,000 children in Northern Ireland live in poverty with the number expected to rise in coming months. With this in mind, the Stuff a Bus virtual toy appeal, which is supported by partners U105 and Belfast Live, has an ambitious target of £75,000, to allow teams of volunteers to help as many families as possible this Christmas.
Commenting on the importance of the annual Christmas campaign, Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive said:
“For a second year, the Coronavirus pandemic has negatively impacted families across the country with more households than ever needing support. Through the generous donations of Translink passengers, staff and local organisations our Stuff a Bus appeal will help so many families across Northern Ireland and ensure children won’t experience an empty Christmas. With the support of our partners, U105 and Belfast Live and the essential work of St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army in reaching out to those in need, we’re calling on those who can help to please donate to this very worthy cause'
The Stuff A Bus NI Toy Appeal comes at a time when there is an increasing level of need as more and more families will likely face financial difficulties this year, who have never needed support before.
To make a donation now visit: WWW.STUFFABUSNI.COM
Follow the conversation online using #StuffABusNI and keep up to date with fundraising efforts and announcements on U105 Radio and Belfast Live.
