Local SuperValu stores join in national toy appeal

SMITH'S SuperValu in Monksland and Buckley's SuperValu in Moate ave teamed up with RTÉ 2fm to launch the nation's biggest ever charity toy appeal in association with the St. Vincent de Paul Socciety. SuperValu customers will be able to donate toys at SuperValu stores throughout Mayo and customers are encouraged to give what they can for their local children in need. The RTÉ 2fm toy appeal for St. Vincent de Paul is in its third year and was born out of the hugely successful Toys for Tubs initiative in 2010. Last year's appeal saw some 60,000 toys donated and distributed to families in need. Led by 2fm presenters, including Ryan Tubridy, Hector " hEochagain, Ruth Scott, Colm Hayes and Larry Gogan, the 2fm toy appeal's wish is that every child gets a toy this Christmas. SuperValu stores in Athlone and Moate will act as collection centres this year. Once again listeners will be able to drop off unwrapped toys at SuperValu stores throughout Westmeath. Meanwhile, listeners will also be able to donate online at www.2fm.ie/toyappeal or www.svp.ie/toystore. Said Geoff Meagher, national president of St. Vincent de Paul: "If the parents of children in need know in late November or early December that their child will have a toy on Christmas morning, they can sleep sounder with the knowledge that they can use what money they have available to put food on the table and pay bills. "Calls for assistance to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul have increased by 80 per cent since 2009, and it is expected that this Christmas we will help over 150,000 people, with food, fuel and toys. Your help is vital to ensure we can help those who are struggling in these difficult times."