AN IRISH civil engineering firm in Britain has launched a Christmas toy appeal to ensure as many children as possible will wake up to a gift this December 25.
Pod-Trak, which has bases in London, Manchester and in Ireland, is calling for members of the public to donate toys to either of their British locations - or cash that can be used to buy toys - to help ensure the children of the most vulnerable families will receive a gift this Christmas.
The firm was founded in 2007 by Managing Director, Donegal man Paul O’Donnell.
The initiative is the brainchild of Pod-Trak’s Operations Director for the North, Stephen Given – a fellow Donegal native, based in the Manchester office.
“The idea came when I was listening to my daughter talking to her cousin Daithí on facetime,” he told The Irish Post.
“They were talking about their Christmas letters to Santa and what they would like this year and the more I thought about it I just realised so many children this year probably face the prospect of having nothing to open on Christmas morning.”
He added: “I just felt I needed to do something about that, it’s been a tough year for everyone already, especially for children.”
With the support of his Pod-Trak colleagues Mr Given launched the ‘Making a Christmas to Remember’ toy appeal this week, inviting people to “donate a gift to a child that might go without one this year”.
“We are asking those fortunate enough to be working and looking forward to Christmas to please spare a thought for others and help make their Christmas a little easier,” Mr Given added.
“Christmas is a time for children and a time to share.”
Toy donations are being accepted for all ages - from newborns to 19-year-olds, at Pod-Trak’s offices in Manchester, on Woodrow Way, Thames Trading Estate, M44 6NN, and London’s Crove House, 14 Aintree Road, UB6 7L this month.
The toys will be distributed in time for Christmas, through appeal partners The Salvation Army in London, The Hive Youth Zone in Liverpool and the Manchester Youth Zone.
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