As our family prepares for Christmas, I would like my children to learn that this is a season not only for receiving, but also for giving to others. I know there are many opportunities in the community to give new toys to children in need, but I am wondering where we can give gently used toys as well. We have quite a few toys that would fit into that category that my children have outgrown. Giving from their own collection of toys can be a great example of how to be generous, but all of the collection places I have come across are only asking for new gifts. Do you know of any local places (Fort Worth, etc) where they are also accepting gently used toys? (The Toys for Tots locations in Aledo are not.) Thanks!
Thank you all for the great suggestions! I just heard back from the local women's shelter, and they said they would "love to accept" our toys. I plan to bring them by the drop off location tomorrow with the kids because it is the Feast of St. Nicholas. I will also collect any coats, etc, that my kiddos have outgrown and bring them too.
I'm donating a dollhouse to Goodwill and stuffed animals to the Salvation Army.
I agree with the shelter suggestions.
Do make sure you call in advance. I tried to do this in my area a few years ago. I was surprised to hear that at this time of the year, the local women's shelter was overwhelmed with toys. But, they asked me to please check back with them in February or March. By then, they would have many new women with their families in the facility, and all the toys from the holidays would be gone and they had nothing to give these families at other times of the year.
I know you were thinking of tying it into the holiday spirit, but it may be that you are serving a greater good by holding on to these for a few months, and giving at a slightly later time of the year.
Not sure where in Fort Worth but in Nevada we take our gently used toys and clothes to our local abused womens shelter. I love to see other people doing this. Merry Christmas
Try local women's shelters. Many times, women and children come to these places with only a diaper bag and the clothes on their backs.
Women's shelters need toys, clothes, infant items etc. Call your local emergency women's shelter's, homes, foster-care homes etc. see if they will take toys. GL
Try your local battered women's shelter
You might also check with your local Food Pantry. I know at ours, they have a room where families can pick out clothing, furniture, toys,etc.
Otherwise, I'm sure you have a Goodwill nearby. They're everywhere!!
Merry Christmas!!!
Shamless plug: I'm doing a toy and book swap fundraiser this weekend to raise money to start a children's museum in Denton. Send me a message if you are interested: ____@____.com and I"ll make arrangements to get your stuff! Whatever you decide, it will be a blessing.
