The Knowsley Sharing Santa Appeal 2025 has once again shown the incredible power of community spirit, generosity, and kindness, ensuring that families across Knowsley will have a brighter Christmas.
The appeal – which called for donations of new or good quality pre-loved toys, games, books, gifts for families and individuals facing hardship – brought together kind-hearted residents, all united in their desire to give back this festive season. With donation stations set up across the borough, the response has been overwhelming.
This year, the Sharing Santa Appeal has seen donations of:
- Over £10,000 worth of new toys and gifts
- Over £5,000 worth of items gifted
- Over £10,000 worth of pre-loved toys and gifts
- 15 Christmas decoration bundles
- Donations from local businesses including Asda and Knowsley Business Awards.
More than 3,000 individual donations have now been carefully sorted and prepared by dedicated volunteers and have been taken to local centres for distribution to 350 to families in time for Christmas, spreading joy and relief to those who need it most.
Gary See, Founder of the Knowsley Sharing Santa Appeal and Director of Explore Partnership CIC, expressed his gratitude: “The response to this year’s appeal has been absolutely phenomenal. The generosity of individuals, families, businesses, and office staff shows the incredible community spirit we have here in Knowsley. To know we’ve recycled and re-loved 1 tonne of toys while providing over £10,000 worth of gifts for families is truly humbling. It’s not just about presents under the tree, it’s about hope, kindness, and ensuring every family feels the magic of Christmas.”
Recycling and re-loving toys
A unique feature of the appeal has been the focus on recycling and re-loving toys, aligning with a mission to reduce waste while giving toys a new life. It’s a reminder that sustainable practices and community support can go hand-in-hand to create meaningful change. The appeal has saved around a tonne from landfill as items have gone to charity shops and local organisations for further usage.
With donations now on their way to families, the Knowsley Sharing Santa Appeal continues to demonstrate that when a community comes together, incredible things happen.
Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, or supported this year’s appeal. Your kindness is making Christmas special for families across Knowsley.