In the last week before Christmas, the Leighton Buzzard branch of Morrisons sold out of toys in the space of nine hours thanks to the generosity of shoppers donating to Giving Tree 2015.

On the 14^th and 15^th of December, KidsOut volunteers and employees met outside of the Leighton Buzzard store to encourage shoppers to purchase a toy for a child living in refuge in addition to their holiday shopping. The KidsOut team was overwhelmed by the generosity of passers-by, taking £100s worth of toys back to the charity’s head office in Leighton Buzzard.

“A response like this one really strengthens one’s faith in humanity,” said Gordon Moulds, CEO of KidsOut. “The kindness of strangers can make a huge difference in the lives of these children, who because of their situation are so vulnerable.”

Having kicked off in October, the KidsOut Giving Tree appeal encourages businesses and individuals to donate toys to children in refuge, many of whom may otherwise not receive any. While parents all over the country can purchase dozens of gifts for their kids, those living in refuge may not be able to afford to buy or cope with the process of shopping. Having already left their home, toys and all that is familiar; KidsOut believes that these children also deserve a happy Christmas.

Designed to be a fun alternative to the more traditional Secret Santa, some 143 businesses, schools and individuals have signed up to participate in Giving Tree 2015, nearly tripling last year’s figures. KidsOut will collect toys until the 18^th of December, after which it will focus on delivering the presents to locations across the country.

Morrisons in Leighton Buzzard has proven to be a great supporter of KidsOut, with employees involved in the KidsOut Community Committee and sponsored fundraising events. Following the fantastic uptake of Giving Tree 2015 from shoppers, the supermarket brought in more toys for the 16^th of December so that KidsOut could return to continue its appeal.

“Morrisons is committed to supporting the community, and our calendar is always packed with local initiatives,” said Katharine Smith, Community Champion for Morrisons in Leighton Buzzard and member of the KidsOut Community Committee. “I think that most people like to help others at this time of year, and KidsOut is a lovely charity.”