In 2019, Stuff A Bus NI, the Christmas appeal set up by Translink in aid of Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul’s Family Appeal, set a massive target of 20,000 toy donations, building on the 15,000 toys donated in 2018.
With the incredible help and generosity of local people, organisations, and Translink staff and passengers, the appeal managed to smash that target and stuff a double decker bus full of toys!
During the appeal, St Vincent de Paul and Salvation Army heard some incredibly moving stories about the families who the appeal had helped, and it really brought home the need for ongoing support to tackle the issue of poverty in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland football manager Michael O’Neill was brought on-board last year as a Stuff A Bus NI ambassador to help promote the initiative.
Michael helped launch the campaign, with Belfast-Born Eamonn Holmes also joining the appeal – Eamonn even visited the Salvation Army’s Family Centre in North Belfast, close to where he grew up, where he met families and heard how Stuff A Bus NI makes a difference in their lives.
Eamonn Holmes said: “When you see real people, who have real problems, making the best of terrible situations in their life, thank goodness for the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul, Translink and U105 for collaborating together to bring families some extra joy at Christmas.
Then the most important part: donated toys were delivered ahead of Christmas Eve to families who needed it most, ensuring that thousands of children woke up to a present on Christmas morning.
To find out more about Stuff A Bus NI 2020 campaign and how to donate, click here!
