Mum's Amazon wishlist sees thousands receive pick-me-ups in the post - how you can help spread the joy

A South Tyneside mum had a bright idea for a way to spread some joy during the crisis - and now thousands of people have received pick-me-ups in the post.
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When her business was put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak, Kristal Warburton of Simonside, came up with a way to bring a little cheer back into her days.

The mum-of-one created an Amazon wishlist for her 17-month-old daughter and encouraged others to do the same so she could return the favour.

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Now thousands of people have joined in sharing lists of items they need or small gifts they would like to receive and in return sending pick-me-ups to others.

Kristal Warburton has collected donations for key workers through her Amazon wishlist.Kristal Warburton has collected donations for key workers through her Amazon wishlist.
Kristal Warburton has collected donations for key workers through her Amazon wishlist.

After key workers and NHS staff began to share their own lists, dozens of donations have been sent in for local hospitals, care homes and charities across the region.

“I thought if everyone is stuck at home, this would be a nice way to get everyone’s spirits up,” said Kristal, who runs her own printing business.

“A lot of people I know are feeling down and struggling with their mental health. There are a lot of people whose businesses aren’t receiving any income at the moment, so this was just a way to cheer people up.”

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She continued: “I’ve had people who are lonely saying that strangers have sent them a gift and it’s made their day.

She has received dozens of donations for NHS staff.She has received dozens of donations for NHS staff.
She has received dozens of donations for NHS staff.

“Someone sent me a message saying the group has really picked her up and helped her reconnect with some of her old friends.”

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Kristal says she has been overwhelmed with people sending donations of toiletries, toys and baby items for local maternity units, children’s wards and even gifts for the animals being cared for at Cleadon Kennels.

“I’ve had so many donations I am over the moon, I’ve been really shocked by how kind people have been,” she said.

Kristal's daughter, Maisy Leigh Joyce with her new book sent to her by a kind-hearted stranger.Kristal's daughter, Maisy Leigh Joyce with her new book sent to her by a kind-hearted stranger.
Kristal's daughter, Maisy Leigh Joyce with her new book sent to her by a kind-hearted stranger.
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“I’m proud that key workers are benefiting from it - it’s a way of giving back for what they are doing for us.”

Kristal added: I just want to thank the admins who have been helping me with the page - I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”

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