As the holiday season approaches, Orange County is mobilizing to bring joy to needy families through its 14th annual Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive. Various youth and family agencies, including the Orange County Citizens’ Commission for Children, are at the heart of these collaborative efforts. As the Orange County newsroom reported, these organizations are tasked with identifying families requiring assistance, managing donated items, and ensuring proper gift distribution.
Angela Chestang, the division manager, has been coordinating these efforts. "Our role is to help identify families in need, coordinate donations and make certain the toys are distributed properly." She highlighted the multi-layer process that involves logistics from collection to distribution. Starting preparations in July, the teams ensure everything runs smoothly, benefitting children who would otherwise go without during the festive season, as detailed by the county's press release.
The community's generosity shone through in the previous year as more than 11,500 toys were collected through the initiative. The drive is a beloved opportunity for community partners and families to connect and express the underlying spirit of the season — giving.
Interested individuals and groups can contribute in various ways, including purchasing from the Orange County virtual toy store before December 3 or starting an online team drive. This is a perfect avenue for local businesses and community organizations to band together. Physical donations of new, unwrapped toys can be made at designated drop-off locations across the county until December 9.
Monetary donations and plush toys are not accepted for those looking to contribute. However, many other gifts can be. To find a drop-off point or more information about how to support the Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive, visit their interactive map.
