Join the Heartwarming Toy Drive Making a Difference in Alexandria!
This holiday season, the spirit of giving is alive and well in Alexandria, Virginia, as Volunteer Alexandria kicks off its annual Toys4ALX collection drive. Running through December 11, the drive aims to collect over 3,500 new, unwrapped toys for more than 700 local children, bringing joy to families in need amidst challenging economic times.
Community Unity in Action
As the cost of living continues to rise, many families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. Marion Brunken, the Executive Director of Volunteer Alexandria, highlighted the crucial role of this toy drive, stating, “More and more parents are struggling to support their families due to higher costs.” This initiative provides a glimmer of hope, offering 3–5 toys to each registered child from the Fund for Alexandria’s Child, showcasing a remarkable community effort.
A Broader Reach for Holiday Cheer
The impact of the Toys4ALX drive extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries. Besides serving the 300+ families registered, any extra toys collected will be distributed to various partner organizations, including The Miracle League of Alexandria, the City of Alexandria Domestic Violence Program, and the Substance Abuse Center. This thoughtful distribution plan aims to spread holiday cheer throughout the city, ensuring that joy touches as many lives as possible.
How You Can Make a Difference
Volunteer Alexandria is extending an open invitation to residents, businesses, civic groups, and faith communities to contribute to this worthy cause. Donations can be made in the form of toys or financial gifts. Those interested in supporting the drive can drop off toys at various locations throughout Alexandria, with a main collection hub established at the former TJ Maxx at 3451 Richmond Highway on December 9 and 10.
For those needing ideas on what to donate, suggestions include science kits, dolls of all ethnicities, LEGO sets, sports balls, and educational toys, among others. Every contribution, no matter how small, can have a significant impact on the lives of local children this holiday season.
For more details on drop-off locations, donation guidelines, and how to support the Toys4ALX drive, visit VolunteerAlexandria.org/toydrive. Join your neighbors in making this holiday a memorable one for Alexandria's children!