Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has announced the return of its Christmas Toy Scheme for 2026, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland.
Residents are once again being encouraged to donate unwanted toys in excellent condition, giving them a new home while helping to make Christmas more affordable for families across the Borough.
Donated toys will be collected and managed by Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland before being made available to purchase at a small fee through the Pop-Up Toy Shop Events. All proceeds from the toy sales will go back to the charity.
Designated Christmas Toy Scheme collection containers are available at the Council’s five Household Recycling Centres from 1-30 November:
- Newpark
- Bruslee
- Crumlin
- O’Neill Road
- Craigmore
Donations can also be made at the receptions of Antrim Civic Centre and Mossley Mill, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, during the same period.
Two Pop-Up Toy Shop events will give families the opportunity to browse a selection of pre-loved toys:
- Antrim Central Library, Railway Street, Antrim, BT41 4AE – Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December, 10am–noon.
- The Barron Hall, Glengormley, Newtownabbey, BT36 7QX – Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December, 10am–noon.
At Antrim Central Library, Libraries NI will also be providing a programme of fun, festive activities for children and their families, running alongside the Pop-Up Toy Shop. Activities will include:
- Rhythms, Rhymes and Storytime: Enjoy a Christmas-themed story time, with songs and beats to add to the festive fun.
- Fun Table: Write a letter to Santa, colour a festive picture, try a crossword or enjoy a Christmas craft.
- Christmas Duplo/Lego Build: Help create a Christmas village by building bridges, mountains, people and more using Lego.
- Grab and Nab: Every child will receive a ticket to exchange for a free gift from the table.
The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said: “Christmas can be an expensive time for families, and this scheme provides a practical way for residents to support one another. A toy that is no longer needed in one household could bring a great deal of happiness to a child in another. It is also a great opportunity to think about the value of reusing items rather than throwing them away. I would encourage residents to take part and support this worthwhile initiative.”
For full details, including what items can be donated, Council collection point opening hours and information on community schemes, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/