Chiltern Toy bank spreads joy 

DATE

November 9, 2025

Samantha Horsman tells us why the  Chiltern Toy Bank team make such a difference  

Christmas should be a time of excitement and joy. However, the economic crisis and financial pressures facing everyone makes it a time of worry and anxiety for many people. Families are concerned about how they can make Christmas special for their children, and some have to choose between heating, food and presents. We know that even buying a few gifts will be a challenge for many, and impossible for some.  

Chiltern Toy Bank provides free toys and gifts at Christmas to children aged 0-18 years old, living in Chesham, Amersham, Prestwood and the surrounding villages. We want to ensure no child has to go without. Although Buckinghamshire is considered an affluent county, Chiltern Toy Bank helped more than 600 children last year and our Toy Bank “Elves’” have been busy.  

If you live in our catchment area and would like to register for support, parents or guardians can complete the form on our website until 24th November. You’ll be able to state what your child likes and doesn’t like so they can receive the right toys and gifts. Our community’s generosity also means we also supply a small selection of stocking fillers for each child aged 3 and up, as well as wrapping paper and sticky tape for parents. 

If you or someone you know lives in HP5, HP6, HP7, HP8, HP16 or SL9 and would like to apply for help, please visit chilterntoybank.org. We’ll always try and help as many families as we can. Alternatively, you can make a monetary donation. If you’re interested in hearing more about what we do, volunteering with us or setting up a similar community project, please get in touch.

Share

RELATED STORIES

MORE STORIES

thumbnail

Discover the joy of sailing at Reading Sailing Club’s Open Day

Miroslava Flimelova invites you to the Reading Sailing Club open day on 9 May 2026 to experience the joy of being on the open water.

READ MORE
thumbnail

UK’s first National Triathlon Day launches in Surrey with free event open to all

The UK’s first-ever National Triathlon Day launches in Surrey this May, with a free, beginner-friendly event.

READ MORE
thumbnail

The ultimate guide to South East summer festivals 2026

Liz Nicholls invites you to get stuck into our festivals guide, packed with local highlights, powered by people power for real feel-good vibes.

thumbnail

Step back in time at The Hart Classics Transport Show

Gear up for a classic day out at The Hart Classics Transport Show, a classic car and motorcycle show run entirely by volunteers, on Sunday 21 June 2026.

thumbnail

Where you can see premier classical music in Buckinghamshire

The Jordans Music Club team invite you to enjoy globally acclaimed musicians close to home between 31 May & 12 July 2026.