Bury’s Rock Shopping Centre opens giant Christmas donation station to support struggling families

Tuesday, 4 November 2025 15:14

By David Murphy

A huge festive donation box has arrived in Bury, as The Rock joins forces with local churches and The Salvation Army to collect toys for children in need.

The Rock Shopping Centre in Bury has launched its annual Christmas Toy Appeal in partnership with The Salvation Army Bury and Churches Together Bury, aiming to bring festive cheer to children from struggling families this December.

The campaign’s centrepiece, a giant Christmas gift-themed Donation Station, will be on display in St John’s Square from Friday 15 November until Thursday 5 December. Shoppers are being asked to donate new, unwrapped gifts suitable for children and teenagers, including dolls, books, puzzles, toiletries, stationery, and gift cards.

All collected gifts will be distributed locally by The Salvation Army and Churches Together Bury ahead of Christmas.

The annual Toy Appeal has helped thousands of children across the country. In 2023, over 84,000 presents were handed out by The Salvation Army to families dealing with poverty, homelessness, or hardship. This year, organisers are hoping to reach even more young people facing a tough festive season.

Arnold Wilcox-Wood, Centre Director at The Rock, urged residents to get involved. “Christmas should be a time of joy for every child,” he said. “We hope our shoppers will join us in making a difference. Even a small donation can mean the world to someone in need.”

Captain Cor van der Woude, church leader at The Salvation Army Bury, said the Toy Appeal offers an opportunity to “embrace the spirit of Christmas” and support those who are struggling.

“Christmas is meant to be a time of love and joy, but for many, it’s filled with stress and financial worry,” he said. “We believe every child deserves to smile on Christmas morning, and we are always overwhelmed by the generosity of our community.”

The Donation Station will be accessible during The Rock’s normal opening hours.