MANCHESTER'S very special toy shop where parents don't have to pay a penny is open for Christmas again and it's busier than ever.
The Wood Street Mission has helped families in need in Manchester and Salford since opening in 1869. Every year, it gives out free school uniforms, books, and essentials for newborns.
But its busiest month is December when thousands of brand new toys are donated so staff can create a free Christmas toy shop. Parents who are referred to the city centre charity can then meet a personal shopper inside, and walk out with at least three toys for every child-plus a selection box and wrapping paper.
Nearly 1,200 families visited the toy shop for the few weeks it's open, and around 9,000 gifts were given out this year. That's 'slightly more' than last year, according Wood Street Mission boss Des Lynch.
"We are seeing a lot more families being drawn into this situation," he told the M.E.N. during a tour of the shop.
Denne historien er fra December 24, 2024-utgaven av Manchester Evening News.
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Denne historien er fra December 24, 2024-utgaven av Manchester Evening News.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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