Two independent opticians in Coventry are spreading festive cheer by becoming official drop-off points for a major Christmas gift appeal. The Specsavers stores in Canley and Cheylesmore have teamed up with The Giving Tree Project, ensuring more children in the city receive a present this December.
How the Community Can Get Involved
The teams at both stores are urging colleagues and local residents to donate new, unwrapped gifts for children of all ages. The charity has suggested a value of around £15 per gift. Ideal donations include toys, craft kits, and building blocks. The stores are also welcoming board games and jigsaws for families to enjoy together over the holidays.
To help the charity create complete festive parcels, they are also collecting essential extras. Wrapping paper, Sellotape, batteries, and chocolate selection boxes are all greatly needed.
A Lifeline for Local Families
The Giving Tree Project is coordinated by Coventry City Mission, a small charity based on Deedmore Road dedicated to supporting those in need across the city. The project has an impressive history, running for more than 30 years. Last Christmas alone, it provided gifts for 1,589 children from 633 families in Coventry.
Harpreet Bhara, store director for the two Specsavers branches, expressed her enthusiasm: "We’re really looking forward to being involved with The Giving Tree Project. It’s such a lovely way to spread the magic of Christmas with children who need it most."
Where and How to Donate
Donation boxes are now in place at both locations. Residents can drop off their contributions at the following addresses:
- Specsavers Canley: 330 Fletchamstead Highway, Coventry, CV4 9BJ.
- Specsavers Cheylesmore: 129 Daventry Road, Cheylesmore, Coventry, CV3 5HD.
This initiative offers a convenient and heartfelt way for the Coventry community to ensure no child goes without a gift on Christmas Day.
