Big-hearted pupils from Armadale Academy have been making sure no child goes without this Christmas.
The school again supported West Lothian charity River Kids and its toy appeal, asking families to dig deep and support those who will struggle this festive season.
Pupils on the S6 charity committee, which organised the appeal, and their teachers said the charity was “blown away” by the response from the school community.
English teacher Karyn Reilly explained: “We have been working with River Kids at Christmas for the last few years and we know that their referrals increase year on year.
“We like to help out if we can so we pushed a toy appeal with our staff, pupils and parents/carers.
“The response was phenomenal and we collected a huge amount, probably the biggest amount we have collected to date!
“Stephen Newman from the charity said he was blown away by the response and that it would go a long way to help them fulfil their referrals.”
River Kids thanked the school for all its hard work again this year, adding: “Thank you to everyone at Armadale Academy who have clearly been busy pulling together this donation.
“Absolutely blown away by the generosity of so many who have contributed to this project.
“Special thanks to the S6 charity committee for co-ordinating.
“The West Lothian Toy Appeal brings out the very best in people.”
River Kids was co-founded in October 2005 by Wendy Simpson and Donny Hughes.
They believed West Lothian needed a charity which focused on benefiting disadvantaged local children and children’s groups.
The first fundraising event took place on November 4, 2005, via a bucket collection.
From this, £600 was given to St John’s Hospital and £100 given to a local child who was travelling to Japan for specialist treatment. From there, River Kids has grown from strength to strength and celebrated its 19th birthday this year.
The charity firmly believes that no child should go without.
Volunteers and staff enable positive change for disadvantaged children and their families by providing them with essential goods, clothing and toys, access to financial support through small grants and help with finding employment through volunteering and work placements.
The charity’s dedicated team members and volunteers work closely with support and social care services to raise standards of living, alleviate stress and provide opportunities for the young people of West Lothian to thrive.
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