It’s every child’s dream – to be given the run of a huge toy store and told to help yourself. For more than 50 children who use Norwood’s services, it was a dream come true yesterday as they took part in the Charity’s tenth anniversary Toy Sweep at Toys R Us in Brent Cross. The event, organised by the Toy Sweep Committee, was opened by the Mayor of Barnet, Cllr Anthony Finn.
Using £4,000 raised by the Toy Sweep Committee this year, the youngsters, their parents and Norwood staff gathered dozens of games, CDs, DVDs, art materials, books and toys for the Charity’s children’s services: its three family centres in Hendon, Hackney and Redbridge; its Unity recreational club; and Buckets and Spades short break service.
As well as helping the staff push the trolleys and find the gifts for the centres, the children were entertained by ‘Franco the Magician’, they met Geoffrey the Giraffe and were given a £12 voucher to spend.
Parent Simone Califf said: “It’s a wonderful experience for the children during Chanukah. My children have had a fantastic morning.”
Parents Sarra and Robert Lunzer said: “We are so impressed and humbled by the Toy Sweep Committee and it’s fantastic to be able to hold this locally at Toys R Us.”
Over the last 10 years, the Toy Sweep Committee has raised over £70,000 to buy gifts for Norwood’s children’s services. This year, it organised a series of fundraising events, including a bridge evening, a ladies charity film screening and its first ever Winter Gift Fair.
Debra Kleinman, Chair of the Toy Sweep Committee said: “It always gives the committee great pleasure to organise this event and see how delighted the children are to receive their gifts. Supporting the Norwood services by providing much needed toys and equipment, allows us to make a difference.”
