Holiday Gift & Toy Drive
At NJCDC, our work keeps us closely involved in the day-to-day lives of Patersonians. From the school lives of its children to the home lives of its most vulnerable residents, we offer a full scope of services to neighborhood residents who need them most. Because of this, we also feel the strain that the holiday season can place upon them at a time when abundance is so often taken for granted. This is why one of our longest and proudest traditions is centered around giving back to Paterson residents during the holidays.
This year marks our 31st Annual Holiday Gift &Toy Drive, a yearly effort drawing organized by NJCDC's AmeriCorps program, as well as the generosity of countless volunteers. It's our goal to ensure the children of Paterson all have an unforgettable holiday season. Through last year's Holiday Toy Drive, we gave away over 7,000 toys to almost 1,500 children! However, the support we receive to make this event a reality cannot be overstated.
This is where you come in!
Our Holiday Toy Drive requires those who want to make a difference to offer their support. With so many ways to play a part, anyone can make a valuable contribution!
Option 1: Volunteer
Work alongside our AmeriCorps team and other volunteers directly! You can make our Holiday Gift & Toy Drive event a success through making arts and crafts for kids to do at the party, sorting and labeling donations, and more.
By visiting the Holiday Toy Drive Sign-Up Form, you — as well as your friends and family — can reserve timeslots to assist in making this event possible.
Option 2: Traditional Toy Drive Collection Boxes
We'll supply donation boxes for placement in your lobby, lunchroom, shop, home, or any other suitable location for employees, visitors, or friends to contribute their gifts. Moreover, we'll provide you with promotional flyers, arrange for gift pickups, and gather all contributions by mid-December. To make your kindness go even further, we kindly request that you notify your staff or contacts about the Holiday Drive via announcements, emails, and by sharing the flyers. Awareness is a crucial part of making this endeavor a success!
Option 3: Online Wishlists
One of the most convenient ways for you to help is by visiting our Amazon Wishlist and Target Wishlist! With these links, you and those you know can participate in our Gift & Toy Drive from the comfort of your own homes. All gifts will be delivered to our headquarters (32 Spruce Street, 3rd Floor, Paterson, NJ 07501). Make sure you sign your name so we know who to thank!
Option 4: Appointment to Drop Off Toys
Please email to make an appointment to drop off new toys at our headquarters.
Option 5: Monetary Donation
Consider making a financial contribution that will enable us to acquire gifts, gift certificates, and festive meals for families. You may donate online or send checks payable to NJCDC, addressed to NJCDC, Attn: Toy Drive, PO Box 6976, Paterson, NJ 07509.
For additional details, don't hesitate to get in touch with Gabrielle Foushee at americorps@njcdc.org.
Your generosity can make a world of difference for the children of Paterson, and ensure a holiday season full of fond memories to be remembered for years to come!
92¢
of Every Dollar Donated goes directly to our Programs & Services
4K+
Children and Families Served Daily
200+
Affordable/Supportive Housing Units Built