The holidays are almost upon us, and while shopping for yourself can be fun — shopping for those in need is even more rewarding. Below we’ve rounded up a few toy drives happening in and around downtown Jersey City. Any toys donated will benefit local children in need. So before you treat yo’ self, spread some holiday cheer to those who need it most.
7th Annual Holiday Toy Drive & Happy Hour: Join Jersey City Ties this Saturday (12/3) at HopsScotch for their annual toy drive to benefit the children of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County. Popular toys that are needed include Lego sets, sports equipment (basketball/football), dolls, and Hot Wheels. JC Ties will also match cash donations up to $350. Once you’re done playing Secret Santa, you can kick back and enjoy some drinks and apps at HopsScotch.
Project Market Toy Drive: The holiday shopping season will kick off this weekend at Project Market, but before you start your food/shopping binge, stop by the market’s toy drive table and drop off a new unwrapped toy (for 1- to 12-year old children). Alternatively, you can drop off toys at the Resident Response Center (280 Grove Street at Rm 106) by December 13.
Project Greenville Winter Wonderland: Spread some holiday cheer at this Friday’s Winter Wonderland by bringing a new or gently-used toy to the market’s toy drive bin. Toys will be collected on Friday and Saturday (from 5pm to 8pm).
Harborside Toy Drive: If you’re pressed for time and can’t commit to an event, Harborside staff have placed toy drive collection boxes in the lobbies of all the Harborside buildings. So you can swing by and drop off any new toys at your convenience. The collection boxes will be available through December 15.
Weichert Realtors 39th Annual Toy Drive: Weichert Realtors is inviting members of the community to help children in need by donating new, unwrapped toys to its 39th Annual Toy Drive. Last year alone the nationwide initiative donated more than 13,500 new toys across the country. Donations will be accepted at any Weichert office through December 15. (273 Grove Street & Montgomery and 251 Washington Street btw York & Montgomery).
Visit & Photo with Santa at Loew’s: The Landmark Loew’s Theatre is hosting its 24th consecutive Photo with Santa event on Saturday, December 9. Everyone — including pets — are welcome and the photo opp will also double as a toy drive for children in need. In fact, donate a toy and the $5 photo charge is waived. (Click on Loew’s “December” calendar for the full details).
See Spot Rescued / Liberty Humane Society / Jersey Cats: While neither of these non-profits have formal “toy drives” — any donations you can make this time of year are always helpful, whether it means fostering, donating a bit of your time, or adopting a new best friend.
(Photo: JC Ties/Facebook)
