Grassroots toy drives producing big results
Small, grassroots toy drives held by Twin Cities businesses, churches, and individuals have been producing big results this Christmas season.
Yesterday, for example, The Salvation Army received more than 70 African American dolls (pictured) from Greater Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Minneapolis. The church’s congregation donated the toys after hearing that The Salvation Army needed more ethnic-specific toys. (More toy donations are needed for children of Hispanic, Asian and African American descent. Find drop off locations.)
“When people need help, we believe in helping,” said the Rev. John Bowen, leader of Greater Mount Vernon Church. “These toys are needed and we were happy to donate.”
In the western metro area, local social media influencer Carrie Schmid of Carrie the Moment Sales + Events hosted a small toy drive at Nothing Bundt Cakes in Minnetonka. In one day, donors gave more toys (pictured) than would fit into her car.
“I’m so glad I could help contribute this great collection of toys,” Schmid said.
One ambitious business donated toys before the Christmas season even began. Last July, Hopkins-based soft toy manufacturer Animal Adventure donated 36 rocking horses and 18 bags filled with hundreds of stuffed animals (pictured below).
These and other toy donations will be distributed next week to about 7,000 preregistered families throughout the Twin Cities.
“We are grateful for the toys we’ve received so far and we thank every person and organization who donated them,” said Lt. Col. Dan Jennings, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division.
More toys needed by Dec. 10
You, too, can give a child a merry Christmas by donating toys to The Salvation Army.
Toys are needed for about 21,000 children in the Twin Cities. Donations of new, unwrapped toys are being accepted now through Friday, Dec. 10 in the Twin Cities and St. Cloud at the business locations below and at The Salvation Army Northern Division Headquarters in Roseville, 2445 Prior Ave. N. See a detailed list of drop-off locations.
- HOM furniture
- KSTP 5 Eyewitness News
- SPIRE Credit Union
- Warners’ Stellian
- Minnesota National Guard
- Minnesota Rusco
Unable to donate toys? No problem. The Salvation Army can do your toy shopping for you when you give online.
This year's toy drive is supported by KSTP Stuff the Sleigh.
You can do something good this holiday season by donating to The Salvation Army, volunteering, or ringing bells at a Red Kettle. Your help will provide food, shelter and care for local families in need. Because of you, Hope Marches On.