Rotarians bring Christmas joy to Torbay’s children

Torbay's Rotarians came together this Christmas to ensure children facing challenging circumstances experienced the joy of the season.

Three Rotary Clubs in Torbay joined forces to give every child in Domestic Violence Refuges a treat on Christmas Day.

Paignton, Preston, and Torquay Rotary Clubs took part in the national ToyBox initiative to provide every child in a Domestic Violence Refuge with toys on Christmas Day. 

The clubs jointly donated £1150 to the scheme, which is organised by the charity Kids in Mind in partnership with Rotary.

Nationally, the initiative raised over £83,000, enabling 3,131 children to receive a ToyBox filled with presents tailored to their age and gender.

Above: Example of the contents of a ToyBox- each box is gender and age specific

Steve Latham, President of Preston Rotary Club, said: “Christmas has been tough again this year for many families, but some children, through no fault of their own, find themselves, often with only the clothes on their backs, in a single room many miles from their friends, as they have had to flee domestic violence. 

“Through the scheme we have managed to bring a little joy and smiles to their faces where there would have been none. It is humbling but proud to know that we, Rotary, have been part of this and ensured that every one of the children in the Torbay area had a Toybox this Christmas.”

In addition to supporting the ToyBox initiative, the Preston Rotary Club also brought festive cheer to the Louisa Cary ward at Torbay Hospital. The club donated £300 to help provide extra treats for children spending Christmas in the hospital.

Steve added: “No one likes being in hospital over Christmas, especially the children, but we know the staff at Torbay Hospital do a brilliant job. The Louisa Cary ward team really goes that extra mile to help all the children enjoy their Christmas. We are just pleased to be able to give them a little something to help.”

These efforts are just two examples of the many ways Rotary Clubs in Torbay contributed to the community over the holiday season.

There are eight Rotary Clubs in the Torbay area, part of the world’s largest service organisation, boasting over 1.4 million members in 200+ countries. Known for global projects like ShelterBox and the fight against polio, the clubs also work tirelessly to support local, national, and international causes. Although “standalone” clubs, they frequently work together on projects and support other charities. 

If you would like more information about Rotary and how to join the Torbay community, you can visit www.preston.rotary1175.org or email kay9sera@gmail.co.uk.