How can you support us?
There are plenty of ways you can support us and our families in West Lothian.
Ways to help
Whether through our year-round West Lothian Toy Appeal, other material donations, volunteering or fundraising, we welcome everyone to get involved and help increase our impact.
Our team always welcomes any support and contributions from individuals, as well as from social care organisations, schools and other institutions.
We are also keen to partner with any private businesses looking to fundraise, donate or volunteer to deliver on corporate social responsibility initiatives and activities.
Working with River Kids is an excellent way for your company to give back to your local community and make a measurable difference to the lives of vulnerable young people.
Donate
Your donation has the power to transform the lives of young people, providing them with essential resources, support and opportunities they need to thrive. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference to the lives of these children. Your generosity not only impacts them today but also lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow.
Collection
If you run a business, you can give your customers the chance to donate loose change to us. We will provide a collection can and collect once it’s full and swap it with an empty one.
Crowdfunding
River Kids is launching a crowdfunding appeal to buy its own premises. If you’d like to support us with this effort, please get in touch. We’ll provide more updates as this initiative progresses.
Facebook Giving
River Kids is now registered with Facebook Giving, allowing you to make direct financial donations to us via Facebook – just look out for the ‘Donate’ button on our page.
Donation of Goods
Donate clothing, toys and essential household items, such as small electrical items, dining sets, and bedding to help vulnerable families in West Lothian.
Fundraise
Make a difference in your community by fundraising for local children. Whether you’re holding a bake sale or joining a fun run, your support provides crucial resources and opportunities for local children facing hardship. All efforts big or small will profoundly impact the lives of children and families in need. Join us in creating lasting change within the West Lothian community.
Volunteer
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help us change lives, one child at a time. Whether you have a few hours to spare or are seeking a meaningful way to give back, volunteering with River Kids offers a rewarding experience. From mentoring and tutoring to organising events and fundraising, there are countless ways to make a difference to the lives of young people in the community.
Offering support
Referrals
Asking for help can be challenging, you may be, or you may know a vulnerable young person or family requiring support and we are here to help.
We only accept referrals from qualifying organisations* and unfortunately we cannot accept self-referrals.
If you are a qualifying organisation, to access our year-round toy, clothing and essential goods provision on behalf of someone, please get in touch to request a referral form. After which we will review your application, then check availability of requested items, and arrange collection.
- To access our Small Grants, again please get in touch to request a referral form. Once our team have reviewed the request, we will communicate with you on any additional details required about the young person or family that needs help. It will finally be reviewed by our finance team to assess whether a grant can be made.
- For the Christmas Toy Appeal, we hold a list of qualifying organisations to whom we send an email, with referral form attached, when we are ready to accept referrals ahead of the Festive season. Please get in touch about joining the mailing list.
**Referrals can be made from individuals employed by a qualifying organisation. These include: the Citizens Advice Bureau, health visitors, social workers, family centres, housing associations, DASAT, homeless units and primary or secondary schools.
