The joint Give a Gift campaign between Thurrock Council and Impulse Leisure has returned for its eleventh year to help make sure some of Thurrock's most vulnerable children wake up to a gift on Christmas day.
The campaign looks to provide a gift for children below the age of 10 and a voucher for those who are 10 and over.
Impulse Leisure is accepting donations of toys and gifts at any of their leisure centre sites, which will go to vulnerable children in Thurrock and those at Little Havens Children's Hospice.
As an incentive, residents can also have their joining fee waivered on a new gym membership at the sites, when they donate two or more toys.
Donations are being accepted at the following Impulse Leisure sites:
- Blackshots, Grays, RM16 2JU
- Corringham, Springhouse Road, SS17 7NB
- Belhus Park Golf & Country Club, South Ockendon, RM15 4PX
You can also donate money towards gift cards for Thurrock's vulnerable children who are over the age of ten by using Thurrock Council's online collection pot.
Donations are welcome until Friday 11 December 2026.
Karl Hayes, Managing Director at Impulse Leisure, said: “The Give a Gift campaign is one of the most meaningful initiatives we support each year. Christmas should be a time of joy, excitement and treasured memories for every child, yet we know that for some families this can be a particularly challenging time.
“The incredible generosity shown by our communities year after year never fails to inspire us. Every toy, gift and donation represents far more than a present. It is a reminder to a child that they are valued, cared for and not forgotten.
“We are proud to once again partner with Thurrock Council and support Little Havens Children's Hospice in helping to bring a little Christmas magic to local children who need it most. We encourage anyone who is able to donate to visit one of our centres and join us in making a real difference. Together, we can help create special moments and happy memories that will last long beyond Christmas Day.”
Cllr Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children's Services, said: “Christmas is a time where friends and loved ones come together, but for others it can be a difficult holiday. I’m absolutely delighted that Give a Gift has returned for another year, so we can all help to ensure our borough's vulnerable children can have a gift to unwrap on Christmas Day.
“Each year it has brought together communities from across Thurrock. If you can donate, I would really encourage you to get involved and help make a difference, thanks to Impulse Leisure as an added incentive you can save money on the joining fee for a new membership when you donate two or more toys to one of its sites."
