BASILDON Council has launched its 2026 Christmas giving drive, calling on residents, community groups and local businesses to help bring festive support to families and vulnerable residents across the borough.

Basildon Christmas Giving Drive 2026 will focus on donations of gift vouchers worth £5 or more, with supermarket vouchers particularly encouraged. By giving residents the freedom to choose food, household essentials, Christmas gifts or something they genuinely need, the campaign will help donations make the greatest possible difference.

People who would prefer to donate a physical gift will be able to choose an item from the campaign's Amazon Wish List. Requested items include:

• Sports equipment,
• Board games,
• Arts and crafts activities,
• Biscuits and treats,
• Hats, scarves, gloves, blankets and adult toiletries.

Other new physical gifts will also be accepted, although vouchers and Wish List items are preferred.

Gift vouchers and accepted physical donations can be taken to:

• The Basildon Centre reception
• Gateway 97.8 studio
• Billericay Chantry Centre
• Wickford Town Council 10am to 12pm, Monday to Friday

Donations can also be posted to the Basildon Centre. For enquiries, email [email protected]

Residents and businesses who would like to donate gifts rather than vouchers can do so through an Amazon Wish List which contains items requested by local organisations that support children and older people. Donations will be accepted up until Friday. 4 December.

More information.

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