Lilly Lambert at the TOY Project. Photo: Amadea Hofmann

IN THE run-up to Christmas, a local charity store has received “at least double” the number of referrals to families in need, as people struggle with the cost of living crisis and are unable to put toys under the tree this year.

The TOY Project in Junction Road, Archway, recycles unwanted toys and provides them to local children and families in difficult living situations. 

Home to countless figurines and stuffed animals amongst a plethora of toys, the colourful shop sells toys to customers and gives them to local community spaces. The TOY Project also provides toys to children in need, who are referred by schools, hospitals, and other organisations. 

Business Manager Lilly Lambert said: “Growing up, especially, the educational, developmental, social benefits are so important. And it’s so hard for a lot of families – especially now – to access toys. 

“At Christmas, you want to know that every family has presents under the tree and kids can open toys and enjoy and play and celebrate and all come together. It’s why what we do is so important.”

Ms Lambert – who started volunteering at the store nine years ago when she was 16  – explained that The TOY Project was founded nine years ago by Jane Garfield and Angela Donovan to “ensure every child has access to play and toys” and “make sure that the toys have an extended life cycle and don’t end up in a landfill.”

She added that this Christmas in particular, many families are struggling to stay afloat. Amid the cost of living crisis, it seems that Santa might not be able to visit every household. According to Ms Lambert, The TOY Project has seen “at least double” the number of referrals this Christmas compared to previous years.  

Due to the unprecedented number of donations The TOY Project needs to make this Christmas, Ms Lambert is asking local families for support to make this season a festive one for children: “We have so many toys going out to the families in need, so any donations of new toys this Christmas would be incredible. If you could send it or drop them off to the shop at 81 Junction Road – any new toys – that would be so helpful.”