Small businesses donate toys and sweets to Doncaster children who are in need this Christmas

Boxalotte is a new business started by 20 year old Charlotte Hayes.

She wanted to do something for children who may be going without this year and so came up with the idea to donate toys to charity.

Charlotte, who is from Bentley, said: “With Christmas coming up I wanted to do something for the community but as a small business we don’t have the funds to make a large lump sum donation of money.

“So I came up with the idea that every time we get an order we will buy a children’s toy and donate it to charity or to a Doncaster hospital.”

So far Charlotte has collected 25 to 30 toys and will keep going all the way up to Christmas day.

“This year has been so hard for many and we can’t possibly imagine what some have been through,” she said.

“I think this is an amazing way to lift spirits and put a big smile on kids' faces.

“It’s an amazing feeling to think I’m helping children who might be going without gifts at this time of year.”

Boxalotte is a business that sells gift boxes consisting of chocolate, alcohol and beauty products.

Pretty Sweets is a business owned by Pretty Basra.

Just like Charlotte she wanted to give back to the community this Christmas.

Pretty, who is from Auckley, said: “I’m giving out sweet filled boxes to children this year.

“I’m donating some to the Eve Trust, Phoenix and Bluebell Wood.

“As a mum myself I know how far small treats like this can go and for those who might class this as a luxury it will hopefully put a smile on their faces.”

Pretty said she hopes that her donations will balance out the doom and gloom of the new government restrictions.

“Christmas has effectively been cancelled this year so we have to make the most of what we can do at home,” she said.

Pretty is looking for more charities to donate sweet boxes to, if you have a suggestion you can contact her here.

You can find Boxalotte here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.