More than 450 brand-new pyjama sets and hundreds of additional clothing items have been donated through this year’s 1XX Pyjama Drive, with organisers saying the community response has far exceeded expectations.

Nearly $3000 was raised during the campaign, with donations continuing to come in this week.

The donated clothing has been collected by The Clothing Project from One Double X and will now be distributed throughout the Eastern Bay to children in need of warm, clean sleepwear heading into winter.

Working alongside community organisations, The Clothing Project will ensure the items reach families across the region.

A total of 11 schools and early childhood centres took part in the drive, including Ōhope Pre-School, Ōhope Beach School, Apanui School, Nukuhou North School, Otakiri School, Allandale School, Apanui Kindergarten, Garaway Kindergarten, Busy Bees McGarvey, Kawerau South School and Woodlands School.

Organisers at One Double X said the drive received around three times as many clothing donations as last year, while cash contributions had doubled.

“One Double X couldn’t be prouder of the community rallying together to smash expectations out of the water with this year’s 1XX Pyjama Drive,” the station said.

“The outpouring of support from individuals, businesses and schools has been immense, and we couldn’t have achieved this without the wonderful whānau across the Eastern Bay.

“Helping those in need from every corner of the Eastern Bay is something we strive and thrive doing, so expect another massive clothing drive next year.”