Cambridge MP Daniel Zeichner launched an appeal from the Red Hen Project and Tesco for contributions to their Christmas toy donation point in Tesco Superstore on Newmarket Road

Both organisations teamed up to enable customers to donate and purchase toys in store and help make this Christmas special for children and families in need.

For some families, the last year has been particularly challenging, while the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, driven by a surge in household bills alongside the tapering of work support and universal credit, are making life tough. The Christmas toy-buying season is also likely to be significantly more expensive this year, as the costs related to shipping toys skyrocket, amid delays and shortages in all parts of the transportation process, leaving many of the poorest families struggling to provide presents for their children.

Mr Zeichner is urging constituents to donate a toy in store and help make this Christmas extra special for thousands of our most disadvantaged children. He said: “this year has been tough on everyone, but it has been particularly tough for our poorest communities. As we head into winter, and in the present economic climate, many families will struggle to put food on the table, let alone afford presents. When Cambridge residents are called upon, however, they are invariably responsive, generous and kind. I therefore encourage everyone to contribute to this fantastic initiative, and help make a real difference to families this festive period”.