Girvan Youth Trust have launched their annual appeal for donations to the Magic of Christmas toy raffle.

The raffle has, over the past six years, seen the Girvan community donate more than 620 toys - with over 160 being re-donated by winners for redistribution to local children in need under our ‘Secret Santa’ option.

The following thank you letter the Girvan Youth Trust received from one of the local community workers who helps distribute the toys shows just how much good work has been done to help local families most in need at Christmas. It reads:

Dear team,
Thank you so much for all the donated presents. I have had the pleasure of distributing the toys to many families who were truly in need. 

I know these families and children would not have been visited by Santa without GYT and the local community. Making Christmas special is truly appreciated.

In launching this year’s appeal GYT is fully aware and appreciative of how difficult and demanding 2017 has been for local businesses in regards to charity appeals and donation requests. 

They hope that such requests still allows space for the spirit and magic of Christmas to shine through at a special time of year. 

Bill Logan of the Girvan Youth Trust said: “A time when our own fond childhood memories of ‘that special Christmas or present’ makes us want to ensure that Santa continues to bring that special smile, joy and memory to local children.

“Our annual TOY raffle is not only unique in its ‘Prizes’ but we are unaware of any other town or community who holds such an event in aid of local children and the community. 

“The success of the TOY raffle is however very much dependent on the continued and invaluable support of local businesses, workers, organisations and members of the local public. To this end, we would welcome any new toy or monetary donation. 

“Any donation or financial support will, be acknowledged and publicised in our promotional / publicity material in both, the local media and posters.”

This year’s raffle ticket sale will be launched at the Christmas Street Party on Sunday, December 3 with the draw being made on Friday, December 15. 

All profit raised from this year’s raffle is in aid of Girvan Youth Trust’s operation of the Z1 Youth Bar and their delivery of established community projects such as, A Day at the Seaside Children’s summer programme, Music on the Prom and our Sports-tastic sports programme for local children and young people. 

GYT say thank you in anticipation of local continued and valued support . 
For information contact Bill Logan on 01465 714729.