Toy drives are charity events that are very crucial, especially around the holidays. It’s a good way for parents to lead by example and show their kids how important it is to give to others in need.
Many families have been hit hard by the pandemic and a toy or children’s gift donation may be able to bring a smile to a child’s face this holiday season. Not sure who’s taking toy donations this year? Check out this list of toy drives in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties to get you started. Note: Some locations have specific drop off times in order to follow the social distance guidelines this year and some will even let you order online for their organization, make sure you check ahead.
Chevy Dealers Annual Toy Drive
Located in metro Detroit
This sixth annual toy drive supports the Bottomless Toy Chest, a nonprofit that delivers toys year-round. Its mission is to deliver a toy to every child in the hospital. A wish list of new and unused toys can be seen here.
Detroit Stuff a Truck
Located at Belle Isle Park (now-Dec. 18) and the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center (Dec. 12-19, 2020).
Bring new and unwrapped toys to one of the social-distanced drop-off locations and fill the back of a Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer’s patrol vehicle. All toys will be given to children in the area before Christmas Day via the Detroit Police Department’s Sergeant Santa Program.
Gifts in Kind
Located in Ann Arbor
Donate new toys to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Wish lists are on their website along with their toy and gift safety guidelines. To schedule a time to deliver, call 734-764-1260.
Macomb Charitable Foundation
Located in Macomb County
This organization helps homeless and at-risk children. Donate new toys and gift cards at one of the many drop-off locations in the city of Macomb, Ray Township and Shelby Township.
Operation Christmas Child
Located worldwide
Families can pack a shoe box for a child in need. This program is run by Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian organization that donates to kids all over the world. Fill the box with toys and necessities and track your box’s journey.
Pull Up Toy Drive
Located in Detroit
The Durfee Innovation Society presents a drive-thru toy drive. It takes place on Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, from 2-5 p.m. and will give away free toys while supplies last. Call 313-224-4505 to donate toys in advance.
Rainbow Connection Holiday Toy Drive
Located in Oakland County
Donate new and unwrapped toys to this organization. The holiday drive runs from Nov. 16-Dec. 18, 2020, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 248-601-9474 for a special drop off.
Salvation Army Angel Tree
Located in metro Detroit
This toy and clothing drive is brought to you by the Salvation Army and Walmart. The trees have tags on them of a child’s wish list. Donors choose a tag and shop for the little boy or girl (doesn’t have to be at Walmart). Items can be dropped off at any Salvation Army.
Toys for Tots
Located in metro Detroit
Run by the U.S. Marines. Donate new and unused toys for a child in need. Various drop off locations can be seen here.
Do you know of any other toy drives in southeast Michigan? Share them with us in the comments so we can add them to our list!
