KidsOut were delighted to receive an amazing donation of 1,200 boxes of brand-new toys from Hasbro. The toys will be distributed to children entering women’s refuges around the UK as part of KidsOut’s Toy Box service. With an average of 10 toys per box, a total of roughly 12,000 toys were packed and donated by Hasbro over the last two weeks of July.

“In this time of immense difficulty for families in refuge, it is essential that KidsOut can continue to provide fun and happiness to children who need us,” said Sandra Doherty, KidsOut’s Head of Children Services. “We really cannot thank Hasbro enough for their ongoing support to our work. The toys they have donated will be treasured by children all over the country for years to come and aid the development of good mental health.”

Over the last six years KidsOut has received incredible support from Hasbro, with the partnership culminating every year in a mass Toy Box packing day. This year 1,200 Toy Boxes were donated and packed in the Newport facility by generous Hasbro staff members.

With the Covid-19 pandemic leading to a major rise in domestic violence, KidsOut’s Toy Box service has never been more needed. The charity has altered its approach, delivering boxes of brand-new toys to children as they enter the sanctuary of a women’s refuge rather than waiting until they are rehomed. Over April 2020 alone, KidsOut distributed 5,362 Toy Boxes to children experiencing lockdown measures isolated in refuge. Receiving the Toy Box can help children regain a sense of normality and make the world seem a little kinder. With demand increasing to record levels, Hasbro’s generous donation will mean KidsOut can continue to support the welfare of children as they enter refuge.

KidsOut would like to say a big thank you to all the Hasbro team members that participated, with a special thanks going to Sarah Smith and Helen Dunlop who selflessly organised the entire event.