Young Heart Hero has pre-Christmas clear out for BHF

10-year-old Maia from St Neots is encouraging children and parents across Cambridgeshire to have a pre-Christmas clear out and donate their unwanted toys, books and clothes to our shops. 

Maia Wiggett, who was born with a serious congenital heart condition and underwent open-heart surgery at just six months old, knows first-hand the importance of our work. Last year, she was named a British Heart Foundation Young Hero for her fundraising efforts and bravery. 

Now, as the festive season approaches, Maia is once again supporting the charity by donating her own preloved items to her local BHF shop to make room for new ones this Christmas - and she’s urging others to do the same. 

Speaking on her clear out, Maia said: “I’ve had a big clear out of my toys, books and clothes to help other children enjoy them this Christmas. It feels really good to give something back, especially at this time of year. I’ve made space for new things, and it’s fun to see what’s in the shop too - I even found a present for my brother! British Heart Foundation means a lot to me and my family, so I’m really proud to help out.” 

Susan Cassano, Shop Manager, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Maia into the shop with her donations. Donating unwanted toys is a lovely way to make room for new ones, but it’s also about passing on joy. A toy that brought one child happy memories could become a treasured gift for another. Every donation helps us raise funds for lifesaving research and gives items a second life.” 

As well as bringing joy to those that need affordable gifts and ensuring children have a present under the tree this Christmas, your generous donations will also help fund lifesaving research, keeping families together for Christmases to come. 

Find out more about how to shop, donate or volunteer here