Every year, KZN residents open their hearts and wallets to help East Coast Radio bring a smile to thousands of underprivileged children in the province. This year, East Coast Radio’s Toy Story With Game campaign extended beyond South Africa, as the plight of our ill and disadvantaged little ones tugged at the heartstrings of Alan Tyrer all the way in Afghanistan.
Alan, a Port Shepstone resident, has been based in Afghanistan for the past three years as a professional dog handler.
He decided to contribute to Toy Story to “make a few children’s festive season just a bit better; to bring happiness to someone less fortunate.”
Determined to spread some cheer among KZN’s children in government hospitals, crèches, orphanages and child-headed households, Alan is rallying other South African dog handlers working in Afghanistan to make a contribution to Toy Story. 
Their efforts will make a difference to children who are sick, orphaned or those who come from destitute families.
Last year’s campaign saw over 50 000 new toys handed over to underprivileged children. R1.6 million was also received in cash donations, which saw more than 4500 food parcels being distributed.
Alan says he misses his wife, daughter and the sea the most and is hoping to be home in time for Christmas. One thing is certain: his Toy Story donation will give some of our province’s children something to look forward to this holiday season.