A toy can make a difference for a child in need. Imagine a stuffed animal that becomes a treasured confidant, an action figure that becomes a companion, or a coloring book that unleashes your imagination. For many kids facing hardship, these are more than just toys—they’re practical reminders that someone cares.
As the holidays approach, the Toy Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Toy Association, is uniting companies across the toy industry to bring the magic of play to children who need it most, regardless of their circumstances. The Foundation’s Toy Bank stands ready to work with manufacturers, retailers and distributors to collect new toys, games, books and other toys and distribute them to millions of children in need around the world.
The true power of our industry is revealed when we work together to make a difference. By supporting the Toy Bank’s holiday collection, you can bring hope, joy and the benefits of play to children who are sick, suffering or in other need. Our collective efforts have the power to change lives and spread the magic of the season far and wide.
—Pamela Mastrotta, Executive Director, Toy Foundation
Why your participation matters
The impact of corporate toy donations extends from local communities to countries experiencing humanitarian crises. Toys collected will be distributed to the Toy Bank’s nonprofit partners around the world, including global organizations like World Vision, national programs like Henry’s Hope, and local grassroots organizations like Giving Friends, Brooklyn Youth Enrichment, Metro Kidz, and Crayon Computers .
Many of these organizations host community toy drives during the holidays and rely heavily on donations to meet the high demand for toys. By donating to toy banks, companies can ensure these organizations can allocate their already limited budgets to other critical needs and provide high-quality toys that really make a difference.
Participating in Toy Bank’s holiday series also provides the company with a meaningful way to achieve its corporate social responsibility goals. Thanks to the industry’s enduring commitment to philanthropy, the Toy Bank collected $20 million worth of toys this year alone and distributed them to more than 1.6 million children around the world. Since 2003, Toy Bank has impacted 33.3 million children around the world, a powerful testament to the collective impact of the toy industry united toward a common goal.
How to participate
To ensure children receive their toys in time for the holidays, the Toy Bank will collect toys through October. This gives the Toy Bank enough time to manage logistics and distribute the toys to its network of more than 3,000 nonprofit partners. No toys are donated too small or too big; all types of products are welcome including stuffed animals, games, craft kits, books and more.
The Toy Bank makes it easy for companies to donate through a variety of channels throughout the year. The Toy Bank will collect donations, provide tax confirmation, and report on the impact of your donation for free. To make a product donation, you can fill out the donation form at toyfoundation.org/toy-bank and submit it to [email protected]. Or, you can make a cash donation by visiting toyfoundation.org/donate.
Toy Bank is your partner in delivering the gift of play. No matter where your business is located or how many toys you need to donate, you are helping the children who need it most have an unforgettable holiday season. Together we can change the world – one toy at a time.
A version of this feature was originally published in The Toy Book’s Fall 2024 Los Angeles Toy Preview issue. Click here to read the full article! Want to receive a printed copy of The Toy Book? Click here to view subscription options!
