GIFT distributed over £15,000 worth of toys and presents across London, Manchester and Jerusalem in the run up to Chanukah, with the help of partner organisation Camp Simcha, Bar Mitzvah boy Benjamin Goldblatt’s toy collection, grandparents Evelyne and Geoff Wynne and other generous donors.
“Camp Simcha is delighted to have partnered with GIFT on our annual Toy Drive Campaign this year enabling children with serious illness at home and in hospital to receive gifts as well as those GIFT support in the community,” commented Camp Simcha head of services Daniel Gillis. “The response from the community was very generous and we appreciate those people who donated toys.”
One of those generous donors was Benjamin Goldblatt, who chose to celebrate his Bar Mitzvah by doing a Chanukah toy drive: “It’s important because some families can’t afford gifts for Chanukah, but all parents should be able to put a smile on their child’s face with a gift,” said Benjamin. “I’m so pleased that people have helped support this drive on the occasion of my Bar Mitzvah, and I’m so glad I could help those less fortunate than myself. I’m so happy I could make a difference.”