Tesco Ballymena customers invited to spread festive joy with Christmas toy donations

Ronny McFall, Community Champion at Tesco Ballymena

Tesco customers in Ballymena are being encouraged to help bring festive cheer to local children in need by donating new toys to The Salvation Army this Christmas.

Until 15 December, the Tesco Ballymena Superstore is hosting a special collection point for new and unwrapped toys, which will be distributed to families across the local area by The Salvation Army.

The organisation supports vulnerable people through homelessness services, community programmes, and emergency assistance—work that becomes especially vital during the winter months.

Tesco Ballymena also has a collection point outside the store near the side car park

Ronny McFall, Community Champion at Tesco Ballymena, said:

“A collection point in our store has proven very successful in previous years, and 2025 is no different. The Salvation Army has very strong support in Ballymena. Our customers value that the gifts are distributed locally.

“If I had one ask to our customers, it would be to remember the teenagers in their donations as well.”

Tesco says the annual appeal is part of its wider commitment to supporting local communities and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to enjoy the magic of Christmas.

Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco, said:

“Our stores are committed to supporting local children and their communities year-round, and thanks to the generosity of our customers and colleagues, the annual toy donation campaign is a wonderful way to make a difference at Christmas.

“It’s great to see Tesco Ballymena Superstore partnering with The Salvation Army this year to ensure that every child experiences the magic of Christmas.”

More than 800 large Tesco stores across the UK will feature dedicated donation points this year. In 2024, customers donated 125,000 toys, and the retailer hopes to exceed that number in 2025.

Residents in Ballymena who wish to support the appeal can simply purchase a new toy during their shop and drop it off at the in-store donation point.