A YOUNG charity ambassador is asking Islanders to donate their pre-loved children’s toys and clothes for a Christmas market fundraiser.
Six-year-old Ophelia Goldsborough is calling for donations of pre-loved unwanted children’s gifts for the Jingle and Mingle Market, which she has organised with her friends in Year 2 at JCP.
All proceeds from the market at Chateau Vermont will go to purchasing fuel and food vouchers for Caring Cooks as part of the charity’s Fuel or Fuel campaign to support some of the Island’s most vulnerable families with essentials.
Ophelia – the charity’s youngest ambassador and Pride of Jersey nominee this year – has asked for toys, books, clothes of all sizes and unwanted gifts to sell and she hopes to raise at least £500.
Having supported the charity after donating her birthday money last year, Ophelia said the idea for the Jingle and Mingle Market came from noticing she and her sister had toys they no longer use.
“I wanted to donate my birthday money last year to children that don’t get anything and my sister and I have toys we don’t use. So, I said to my mummy if we can get this to families for Christmas and we came up with the idea [for the market],” she said.
“My sister Amelie and me have been sorting through donations from lots of lovely people. I’m doing games and she’s doing cuddly toys.”
Not only is the market supporting a good cause, but Ophelia wants to encourage Islanders to consider the environment at Christmas by buying second-hand gifts which she thinks are still good presents because they have been “loved by someone else”.
“My teacher Mrs [Andrea] Christopher teaches us about [the environment] in school. I know how important it is to save the planet and if we use charity shops and have second-hand toys we are helping and giving back,” Ophelia added.
Nadia Guglieri, deputy headteacher at JCP, added: “JCP are delighted to celebrate with Ophelia.
“Her dedication to the Food or Fuel campaign, which supports families in need, showcases her deep commitment to helping others.
“Ophelia not only leads by example, but also inspires her peers to join her in this worthwhile cause.
“We are incredibly proud of Ophelia and her dedicated team for their hard work and the positive impact they are making.”
The market is being held on Sunday 1 December from 12pm until 3pm and will feature a visit from Santa, arts and crafts and a raffle.
Businesses are also encouraged to donate raffle prizes and anyone wanting to donate should call or text Denise on 07797 731163.
