'Tis the season for giving. To help you give to those most in need this year, Hoodline has put together a list of Bay Area spots where you can donate toys and food for distribution to neighbors in need. You can also donate money online to support these efforts, or order items for virtual toy drives and more. Happy gifting!
(As with any events, things can change, so confirm details before going to any in-person donation drives. We've provided all the links you need to get full details and double-check before going.)
The SF Firefighters Toy Program is gathering toys for local kids through a virtual toy drive and at various fun events hosted by partners around the area. Upcoming events include a holiday open house at the SF Richmond Neighborhood Center on Dec. 15. Get details for the non-linked events at www.sffirefighterstoys.org.
San Francisco Police Department Toy Drive
Through December 21
The SFPD is doing its annual toy drive in partnership with Walgreens, and you can drop off an unwrapped toy at any Walgreens location, or donate to the drive via Venmo instead. More info here.
City of Oakland Community Toy Drive
The 42nd annual iteration of Oakland's citywide toy drive is mostly virtual this year, with donations of gift cards and monetary donations accepted.
Marine Toys for Tots
Ongoing
Drop off toys in donation bins at any of dozens of locations around the Bay Area for distribution to local children. San Bruno Toys for Tots has drop-off spots in San Francisco, the Peninsula and Marin; San Jose Toys for Tots has locations all around the South Bay; and Alameda Toys for Tots has locations all over Alameda County. Or check the main Toys for Tots site to find the campaign closest to you. You can also donate money online to support the program. More info: www.toysfortots.org
GLIDE Toy Wonderland
Through Dec. 14
GLIDE in San Francisco is collecting new toys for children ages 0–11 in the community who might otherwise go without this holiday season. Drop off your donations by Dec. 14, order from their Amazon toy drive registry by Dec. 15, or check their website for volunteer opportunities: www.glide.org/events/holidays-at-glide/.
Bay Area Food Banks
Get food to hungry neighbors by donating to your local food bank. San Francisco State's Ethnic Studies Student Resource and Empowerment Center has an extensive list of food banks around the Bay Area. Contact those nearest you to find out what they need and where you can drop it off.
