Burgess Hill toy appeal to continue online during second lockdown

A donation collection point for toys at Mabel’s Emporium in Burgess Hill has closed amid the lockdown.
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But people can still donate to the toy appeal via an Amazon wish list online.

Louise Williamson started the appeal to provide toys and books for sick children in hospital this Christmas.

The toy appeal is for the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity.

Louise Williamson started the appeal in Burgess Hill to provide toys and books for sick children in hospital this ChristmasLouise Williamson started the appeal in Burgess Hill to provide toys and books for sick children in hospital this Christmas
Louise Williamson started the appeal in Burgess Hill to provide toys and books for sick children in hospital this Christmas
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She said: “I have set up a gift list on Amazon so people can still donate and deliver gifts to me directly. This can be found on Mabel’s Emporium Facebook page.

“The Rockinghorse appeal I’m sure has been affected by Covid-19 as vital fundraising has been difficult – so this year supporting this charity is even more important.

“I set out posting on my personal page to start a collection and never dreamt this would become anything more, but thanks to my lovely friend, Heather Holland, at Mabel’s Emporium, she offered to help and offered a collection point for me.

“Fingers crossed we can continue collection at Mabel’s when they reopen.”

Louise Williamson with her daughter, KatelynLouise Williamson with her daughter, Katelyn
Louise Williamson with her daughter, Katelyn
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Louise started the appeal following her daughter’s experience in hospital.

She said: “In 2018, we had our little girl, Katelyn, and she spent her first Christmas in hospital.

“The hospital staff were amazing, helping us make the most of the situation as a family and making sure all kids knew Santa would still come as he knew where every child was.

“Staff were so upbeat and fantastic – we met some truly wonderful nurses and doctors.

Katelyn with her Christmas morning gift in 2018Katelyn with her Christmas morning gift in 2018
Katelyn with her Christmas morning gift in 2018
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“Waking up on Christmas morning Santa had visited and there was a gift at the end of my daughter’s bed. This meant so much and brought such a smile to her face.”

She thanked the community for their support spreading the word and providing donations.

Burgess Hill councillor Samantha Smith (Dunstall Ward) praised Louise’s efforts: “I think this is absolutely wonderful and lovely to see the community once again pulling together to help children feel Santa hasn’t forgotten them while they are away from home.

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