Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has announced the return of its popular Pre-Loved Toy Scheme, now entering its seventh year, encouraging residents to donate quality used toys to help local families this Christmas.
Running from Monday 27 October to Friday 12 December 2025, the initiative invites the public to drop off clean, complete, and good-condition toys at any of the Council’s Household Recycling Centres or participating leisure centresacross Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus.
Last year alone, the scheme collected and rehomed an impressive 3.1 tonnes of toys, and the Council hopes to top that record this festive season.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:
“This scheme is the perfect opportunity for people to give their unwanted toys a second life, helping families who may be struggling during the Christmas period while also reducing waste in a sustainable way.
“Mid and East Antrim was the first council in Northern Ireland to launch a scheme of this kind, and I’ve been amazed at the generosity that continues to grow year after year.”
Residents are encouraged to donate items such as children’s bikes, scooters, games, jigsaws, dolls, books, and other good-quality toys that are in working order.
Isobel Kerr, ReStore Manager for Habitat for Humanity, added:
“We are delighted to be part of the Christmas toy container initiative. This time of year can be especially difficult for families on low incomes, and we’re proud to help make Christmas more affordable and joyful for local families.”
Donations will be collected by Council staff and distributed through local charity partners, including Habitat for Humanity ReStore Ballymena, Larne Community Care Centre, Sure Start, Home Start, and local schools.
Each year, it’s estimated that more than 8.5 million toys are thrown away in the UK — many of which could be reused or rehomed. By taking part, residents are helping reduce landfill waste, protect the environment, and spread some festive cheer across the borough.
For full details and drop-off locations, visit midandeastantrim.gov.uk or contact waste.helpdesk@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.