193 Nationwide Collection Locations Confirmed
RTÉ 2fm is set to join forces with leading charity St Vincent de Paul, and SuperValu, for the nation’s biggest ever charity toy appeal. Led by 2fm presenters, including Ryan Tubridy, Hector Ó hEochagain, Ruth Scott, Colm Hayes and Larry Gogan, the 2fm Toy Appeal aims to make sure that no child in need is left without a toy this Christmas.
The campaign comes in the wake of startling figures from St Vincent de Paul, who say that calls for help to the SVP regional offices have almost doubled between 2007 and 2010. The campaign follows the hugely successful Toy for Tubs initiative last year – which saw over 25,000 toys donated and distributed to families in need – and is supported once again by SuperValu.
Listeners will be able to donate toys at SuperValu’s 193 stores nationwide. Meanwhile, listeners will also be able to donate online at www.2fm.ie/toyappeal or www.svp.ie/appeal-2011/2fm-toy-appeal
Says 2fm’s Hector Ó hEochagain: “Christmas is a cruel time if you’re struggling or in need. The 2fm Toy Appeal wants to make Christmas better for thousands of families. No child should be without a toy this Christmas. Listeners can donate at any SuperValu, or online. It couldn’t be easier.”
Mairead Bushnell, National President, Society of St Vincent de Paul, says: "St. Vincent de Paul is absolutely delighted at the support from RTÉ 2fm for the 2fm Toy Appeal campaign. The donations received will bring joy to many children who otherwise might have a sad Christmas. Last year Toys for Tubs was a great success. The Irish public responded with toys, games, vouchers, music, books, cinema tickets and all the presents that cheer up children, and even teenagers, when Santa arrives. We’re expecting this campaign to build on the momentum of last year and we are also very pleased to have Supervalu involved to provide collection points all over the country.”
Ms Bushnell added that Christmas "is a difficult time for anyone in need but we hope that the generosity of the Irish people will be seen in the support for this campaign, along with the SVP Urgent Appeal, which is happening at the same time".
“SuperValu is delighted to support the RTÉ 2fm Toy Appeal. Until recently we had no idea that almost 25,000 toys were collected via our store network last year and our retail partners are delighted to be playing their part again this year. What really appeals to us about this initiative is that the toys donated locally stay local, and with stores at the heart of 193 communities nationwide, we have most of the country covered,” said Martin Kelleher, Managing Director, SuperValu.