We’re excited to be hosting a gift and toy swap after our all-age Advent Service on 8 December.
Our gift and toy swap invites you to try a sustainable and community-minded approach to giving. Bring along pre-loved toys, books, games, and gifts to exchange for something “new-to-you.” Not only is it a fun and budget-friendly way to find thoughtful items, but it’s also a powerful step towards reducing waste and caring for our planet.
Why Reducing Waste Matters
As we approach Black Friday and the Christmas season, it’s easy to get swept up in the culture of overconsumption. During this time of year, the UK sees a sharp increase in waste - millions of tonnes of packaging, unwanted gifts, and discarded items often end up in landfill. From non-recyclable wrapping paper to surplus food, the environmental impact of the Christmas season is staggering.
By choosing to swap instead of shop, we can counter this trend. Swapping reduces the demand for new goods, cuts down on the energy and resources used in production, and keeps items in use rather than being thrown away. It’s a simple yet effective way to reflect the spirit of Christmas: generosity, thoughtfulness, and stewardship of God’s creation.
Campaigns to boycott Black Friday encourage people to refrain from buying anything non-essential for the entire day, challenging us to step back and reflect on our consumption habits.
The Financial and Environmental Benefits
A gift and toy swap is not only good for the environment—it’s good for the wallet too. With the cost-of-living crisis impacting many households, this event offers a chance to exchange items without spending money. It’s an opportunity to find something meaningful and useful, ensuring that gifts bring joy rather than financial stress.
Reusing items also lowers the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and shipping new products. Every item swapped instead of bought is a small victory for sustainability, reducing the demand on natural resources and limiting waste.
Giving Back to the Community
At the end of the event, all unclaimed items will be donated to charity. This ensures that nothing goes to waste and spreads joy to those who might otherwise go without this Christmas. It’s a reminder that Christmas isn’t about excess but about giving and sharing with others.
Let’s celebrate what we already have, share with one another, and care for our planet.
We look forward to seeing you on Sunday 8 December for one hour between 12 noon and 1pm for an afternoon of swapping, sharing, and sustainability!
Please make sure all gifts are in nearly new condition, toys are clean and fully functional. We cannot accept items that require mains power, and battery-operated items should have new batteries.