More than 1,200 gifts and 60 food hampers were donated to the Torfaen Santa Appeal, making it the most successful since the Covid pandemic.
The annual appeal, now in its 19th year, collects donations for children supported by Torfaen council’s children’s services, the Torfaen Young People’s Support Service (TYPSS), and Families First teams.
Around 300 children received gifts in time for Christmas. Hampers were given to young people aged 16 and over who are living independently.
Cllr Richard Clark, Torfaen Council’s executive member for children, families and education, said: “It never ceases to amaze me the generosity and spirit of our Torfaen public.
“On behalf of everyone involved in the appeal, I’d like to thank residents and local businesses who donated in droves this year, and to the multiple community venues that opened their doors to support the appeal by taking donations.”
Kate Phillips, team manager at TYPSS added: “Once again we have been overwhelmed by the donations for the young people we’ve supported this year. The gifts and hampers really do mean a great deal to them and will make a huge difference. Thank you to everyone who contributed.”