2016 Holiday Tool Kit

Toy Drives
Frequently Asked Questions
"Who should I ask to help with the toy drive?"
The short answer is EVERYONE! Contact local toy stores (especially mom and pop stores;
they may be smaller, but they have more flexibility to support the drive than a chain retailer
might). Ask schools, churches, community centers, retirement communities ... There is
really no limit on who may want to be involved. There are various levels of involvement.
Some may want to sponsor a drive and do the whole thing by themselves. Some may want
to host a one day event, while others may just want to help out as needed.
"When should I start a toy drive?"
Start planning a Christmas toy drive in the summer. Be sure to have your dates figured out
before you start asking people to be involved.
"How do I keep the interest going in the middle of a toy drive?"
Don't let the campaign drag on. Keep it interesting and lively. Prizes and incentives are a
great way to do this. Also, communicating the needs and the progress are crucial for
keeping people interested. Develop a visual aid that can help people see the contribution
their organization has made (i.e. poster of a toy box ...every toy in the box could represent
25 toys given, etc.)
"How do I ensure that we get the kind of toys that we need?"
Clearly communicate the needs, be specific and give examples of what you need. For
example, you could give a list of boys and girls toys that would 'qualify' for a main gift (i.e.
remote control cars, Barbie sets, games, etc), and what would 'qualify' for a stocking stuffer
(i.e. Hot Wheels, card games, crayons, etc). Never be rude or decline a gift, even if it is
inappropriate or used. We can always pass on these items to the ARC and still keep the
donor's support.
"What do I do with toys that were given late or were picked up after the drive?"
There are a number of things that can be done with these toys. First, be sure to send a thank
you letter, no matter WHEN you received the gift. It can always be given to some child
who needs it. Keep in mind your social services; maybe you need toys for the kids to play
with while they are waiting for their parents, or they can be given to children who have
experienced trauma, or to other needy children within your sphere of influence. It is also a
good idea to keep some toys in storage to help you get a start on next year's toy program.
"Why do the toys need to be new and unwrapped? Won't we take anything?"
Typically for toy drives, we ask that the toys be new because it's a nicer gift to receive,