Have a pile of toys your kids have outgrown or want to spread some extra joy? Donating toys is a fantastic way to put those items to good use and bring smiles to kids who may need it most. But it can be tough to know exactly where to donate toys so they'll make the biggest impact.
In this guide, you'll find trusted national charities, local spots, and even online options that welcome toy donations. From big names to nearby children's hospitals and shelters, you'll discover plenty of ways to make sure your gift reaches the right little hands.
Where to Donate Toys
Whether you have a small bundle of gently loved toys or a larger collection, there are plenty of options that would love to take them off your hands and put them to good use. Here are some popular choices for toy donations, including national organizations and local places in your community:
National Toy Donation Organizations
1. Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots is a well-known charity run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve. This organization collects new, unwrapped toys during the jolly holiday season and distributes them to children in need. You can find collection boxes in many communities, and they even offer online donation options if you're short on time. By donating to Toys for Tots, you're helping make the holidays a little brighter for kids across the country who might otherwise go without gifts.
2. The Salvation Army
Next on our list of where to donate used toys is The Salvation Army. It's another renowned charitable organization that accepts toy donations year-round. They distribute these toys to children in need through their various community programs and holiday assistance initiatives.
You can donate new and/or gently used toys at your local Salvation Army thrift store or drop-off location. The Salvation Army also hosts annual Angel Tree programs during the holiday season, where you can choose a specific child to sponsor and purchase gifts based on their wish list.
3. Goodwill
Goodwill is a non-profit organization that openly accepts a wide range of donations, including toys. While primarily known for accepting clothing and household items, Goodwill also welcomes donations of gently used toys.
These toys are then sold in their thrift stores, with the proceeds supporting job training and placement programs for those individuals with barriers to employment. By donating toys to Goodwill, you not only give children the opportunity to enjoy new-to-them toys but also contribute to a broader cause of helping people find work and achieve self-sufficiency.
4. Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is a kind organization that provides good support and resources to families with sick children. Many RMHC locations have playrooms and toy collections to help entertain and comfort children during their stay.
You can contact your local RMHC to inquire about their specific toy donation guidelines and needs. Donating toys to RMHC can help bring a sense of normalcy and joy to children facing medical challenges and their families during difficult times.
Local Donation Options
1. Children's Hospitals
Many children's hospitals accept toy donations to help brighten the days of young patients. These toys can provide a much-needed distraction and a sense of comfort during hospital stays. However, it is essential to check with the specific hospital regarding their donation guidelines, as some may have restrictions on the types of toys they accept due to infection control policies. Often, hospitals prefer new toys that are relatively easy to clean and do not have small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
2. Daycare Centers
Local daycare centers may also welcome toy donations, especially those that serve underprivileged communities. These toys can help enrich the learning environment and provide children with additional play opportunities.
Before donating, reach out to the daycare center to understand their specific needs and preferences. Some centers may have a particular age group they cater to or may require toys that align with their educational curriculum.
3. Religious Institutions and Churches
Many religious institutions and churches have programs that support families in need within their congregations and the broader community. These organizations often accept toy donations, particularly during the holiday season, to distribute to children from struggling families.
Some churches may also have ongoing toy drives or partner with local charities to provide toys to children year-round. Check with your local place of worship to see if they have any toy donation programs or can recommend reputable organizations in your area.
4. Foster Care Centers and Shelters
Foster care centers and shelters that house children who have been removed from their homes due to various circumstances are always in need of toy donations. These toys can provide a sense of comfort and belonging to children who may have experienced trauma or upheaval in their lives.
Contact local foster care agencies or shelters to inquire about their toy donation needs and guidelines. Some may have specific wish list items or age ranges they are looking to accommodate.
5. Online Websites
If you can't find a nearby place to donate or simply want a convenient option, there are also online platforms that facilitate toy donations. Websites like Donation Town, Pickup Please, and Second Chance Toys allow you to schedule a pickup of your toy donations from your home, making the process convenient and hassle-free. These websites partner with local charities and organizations to distribute donated toys to children in need.
How to Prepare Toys for Donation
Once you've decided where to donate old toys, it's important to make sure they're in good condition and ready for a new home. Here are some easy steps to help you get those toys ready to go:
- Clean the Toys Thoroughly: Begin by wiping down plastic or metal toys with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For plush toys, check the care label and hand wash/machine wash on a gentle cycle. Allow all toys to dry completely before proceeding.
- Inspect for Damage: Carefully examine each toy for any broken parts, sharp edges, or other damage that could pose a safety hazard. Minor damage like scratches can be left as-is, but toys with major defects should be repaired or discarded.
- Check for Missing Pieces: Make sure the toys have all their original components. Toys with missing pieces may be unusable or even dangerous. You can try to find replacement parts, but if that's not possible, it's best to leave those toys out of the donation box.
- Pack Appropriately: Place the toys in a sturdy box or bag to protect them during transport. Avoid over-packing to prevent damage. If you have the original packaging, consider including it, as it may contain important information or instructions.
- Sort and Organize: Categorize the toys by type, age appropriateness, or other relevant criteria. This will make it easier for the receiving organization to distribute the toys to the right children. You can also pack similar toys together to keep things organized.
Once you've decluttered and donated the toys your child has outgrown, you might find yourself looking for new, engaging options that encourage learning through play. The right toys can be more than just fun; they can support your child's language development, problem-solving skills, and cognitive growth, all while keeping playtime exciting.
Alilo has some fantastic interactive toys that combine education and entertainment, perfect for kids from toddler age up to kindergarten. These toys use interactive features that capture attention, making learning feel like playtime.
If you're looking for a toy that promotes early literacy and language skills, the Alilo Interactive Reading Pen Set is a fantastic choice. This set is designed for kids ages 2 to 6 and makes learning words and sounds interactive and fun. By simply tapping the pen on an image or word, kids can hear it read aloud, transforming reading time into an engaging activity.
Conclusion
Donating toys is one of the simplest ways to spread happiness, and now you know exactly where to donate toys to make it count. Whether you choose a national charity, a local center, or a foster care program, every single toy can bring comfort, fun, and a little escape to a child in need. Just take a few minutes to clean up and prepare your toys, and you're all set! Your small act of kindness can brighten a child's world in ways you might never see but can definitely feel good about. So go ahead, pick a spot, and make a kid's day today!
FAQ
Should you donate or throw away toys?
When deciding whether to donate or throw away toys, it's best to donate gently used toys that are still in good condition. This not only reduces waste but also allows other children to enjoy the toys. However, if the toys are heavily damaged, missing parts, or unsanitary, it's better to dispose of them properly.
What is the best place to donate toys?
The best places to donate toys are local charities, children's hospitals, shelters, and organizations that specialize in distributing toys to children in need. Some well-known organizations include Toys for Tots, Goodwill, and The Salvation Army. You can also check with local schools, daycare centers, or religious organizations to see if they accept toy donations.
What are the best types of toys to donate?
The best toys to donate are durable, educational, and age-appropriate. Look for toys that boost creativity and learning, such as building blocks, story music players, puzzles, interactive flash cards, and art supplies. Avoid donating toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard or toys that promote violence or contain inappropriate content.
Should you wash stuffed animals before donating?
Yes, it's a good idea to wash stuffed animals before donating them to make sure they are clean and hygienic for the new owners to enjoy. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent or follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Allow the stuffed animals to dry completely before packaging them for donation.
Share and get 5% off!
Simply share this product on one of the following social networks and you will unlock 15% off!