News Christmas Donations Hub open in Maidstone

The Maidstone Christmas Donation Hub has opened its doors today.

The Maidstone Christmas Donation Hub has opened its doors today.

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is working in partnership with The Mall hosting a Christmas Donation Hub which was officially opened by The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Gordon Newton, this morning (Monday 13 November).

Located on the upper level of The Mall the Maidstone Christmas Donation Hub is gratefully accepting donations for local charities to help those who are struggling to celebrate this year.

The Mayor of Maidstone said:

“It was my great pleasure to open the Christmas Donation Hub which is a fantastic initiative and a first for Maidstone Borough Council.

“It is great that the MBC team is working with The Mall and supporting so many different charities from across the borough of Maidstone. I am sure it will be a huge success and would like to thank everyone in advance who is able to donate to the Christmas Hub.”

The hub is collecting festive gifts, decorations, toys, toiletries, household products, food items and more for those who may not otherwise be able to enjoy the festivities.

MBC Communications Manager who has organised the Donation Hub, Julie Maddocks added:

“Maidstone Borough Council is delighted to be hosting the Christmas Donation Hub and working with The Mall to support so many different local charities.

“MBC wanted to introduce the project as we are very aware of how the rising cost of living is affecting so many people who are finding it difficult to pay their utility bills, cover the cost of their normal food shopping and don’t have any money left to spend on festive extras.

“On our first day of opening we have already received some amazing donations and been overwhelmed at the kindness of the people who have come to see us.  On behalf of the Council I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who is able to help spread a bit of festive cheer and make a difference at a time when people may find it difficult to cope.”

The Christmas Donation Hub located on the upper level in The Mall, next to the children’s soft play area, and will be open to receive donations of new children’s toys, festive gifts, household items, Xmas decorations and non-perishable food.

Suzie Brindle, The Mall Marketing Manager said:

“The Mall is thrilled and proud to announce our partnership with MBC to introduce Maidstone's First Christmas Donation Hub, a testament to our unwavering commitment to the community.

“Our dedication to the community is at the forefront of everything we do, and this initiative is another fantastic way for us to contribute to and support the well-being of Maidstone.”

The Maidstone Christmas Donation Hub is supporting local charities who will distribute the donated items to those people who need them most and include:

• Blackthorn Trust
• Fusion Healthy Living Centre
• Harmony
• Making a Difference to Maidstone (MADM)
• Maidstone Community Support Centre
• Salvation Army
• St Martins Church Shepway
• The Princess Project
• The Vine Church
• Trinity Community Centre
• Wishing Hearts

The hub, (staffed by volunteers) is open from Monday 13 November to Saturday 16 December.

To find out more about the Maidstone Christmas Family Appeal please go to the community pages on the MBC website: https://maidstone.gov.uk/christmas-hub.

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