Every year, Salvation Army churches ask people to donate new toys and gifts for children whose families cannot put food on the table, heat their homes or pay their bills.

Salvation Army Church Leader, Anastasia Layton said: "The Salvation Army's Present Appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have very little.

"We are incredibly grateful for the public's generosity over the years and hope this year our appeal will be able to bring some respite to those who are struggling the most."

The church on Wantz Road will be collecting donations of new unwrapped toys until December 1. The Salvation Army has highlighted that there has previously been a particular shortage in teenage gifts.

People can drop their generous contribution at Maldon Salvation Army, make a donation via JustGiving or via the Amazon Wishlist.

Anastasia added: "Christmas is a time when financial worries are brought into sharp focus as the cost of living crisis continues to have a devastating impact on families who can't afford to heat their homes or put a nutritious meal on the table.

"Helping parents provide a gift for their child not only eases financial pressures, but helps bring the joy of Christmas into their homes." 

The Salvation Army will sort and distribute the gifts to children and families in the area through local groups, schools and social services.

Gifts can include anything from educational toys, baby clothes, bath toys, books, including learn to read books (for babies and toddlers) to dolls and action figures, sports equipment and clothing, toiletries (please try to ensure non-allergic ingredients if possible), gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts, hair accessories and gift vouchers for older children.

Maldon Salvation Army on Wantz Road would also like to invite residents to their Christmas Community Carol service on Sunday December 15 at 10:30am, their Family Christingle Service on Thursday December 19 at 4:30pm, and their Carols by Candlelight Service on Sunday December 22 at 5pm.

More Christmas dates and events can be found on their Facebook page.

A church and charity, The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities.

For more information about the Christmas Present Appeal and ideas about gifts, see The Salvation Army website.