Spreading Christmas Cheer: Donations Boost Pre-Loved Toys Scheme
Friday 28 November 2025
Christmas kindness is already shining bright across Mid and East Antrim, as residents help kick off the seventh annual Pre-Loved Toys Scheme with incredible generosity.
Residents have embraced the Council’s Pre-Loved Toys Scheme, donating toys that carry joy, memories, and the promise of making another child’s Christmas just a little brighter.
Since opening on Monday 27 October, the Christmas toy containers at the five Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) and three leisure centres across the Borough have already begun to fill up. To date, residents have donated 1.9 tonnes of pre-loved toys, and the Council is encouraging everyone to keep up the fantastic momentum.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:
“A huge thank you to everyone who has already donated, you are truly helping to spread Christmas magic across our Borough! It’s incredible to see toys getting a second life and we’re off to a fantastic start, for those who are still planning a clear out - keep them coming! Help make this Christmas a little brighter for families who need it most.”
Residents can donate items such as children’s bicycles, scooters, small slides, games, jigsaws, dolls, books, soft plush toys, and other plastic or wooden toys in good working order.
Last Year the scheme collected an incredible 3.1 tonnes of toys, all redistributed through partner charities for families to purchase at low cost or gift them directly to those most in need across the Borough. With the community’s continued support, the Council hopes to set a new record for donations this year.
The scheme continues in partnership with Restore (East Belfast Mission), Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Ballymena), Larne Community Care Centre, Sure Start, Home Start, and several local primary schools.
For more information, contact waste.helpdesk@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 0300 124 5000 (Option 0).