Spread Holiday Cheer in Birmingham: Gift Drives Are Here!
Hey there, Birmingham! As we roll into December, the holiday spirit is buzzing all around us. Christmas lights twinkle, festive music plays, and delicious treats fill our favorite shops. While we’re all celebrating, let’s not forget there are some of our neighbors who could really use a helping hand. That’s why we’ve put together a list of fantastic local gift and toy drives you can get involved with this holiday season! It’s time to give back and make a difference.
1. Eastern Toys: A Heartfelt Initiative
First on our list is Eastern Toys. Founded by the inspiring Emondre Johnson when he was only 18, this initiative is all about delivering smiles right to the doorsteps of families in need. Every year, Eastern Toys organizes a special event filled with food, games, and, of course, gifts for kiddos. “During the event, we discreetly distribute gifts, toys, and clothes to parents, empowering them to present the items to their children in their own special way,” Emondre explains. How beautiful is that? This year, they’ll celebrate at the Birmingham Museum of Flight and are expecting around 80 guests.
If you’re looking to help out, they welcome new, unwrapped toys, clothing items, and monetary contributions. You can also sponsor a child or a family! Donations can be made online or delivered in person at 1601 5th Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama. Hurry up, though—the deadline is December 4!
2. Eli Thrive: Shopping with a Purpose
Next up is Eli Thrive, an organization dedicated to supporting underserved families. They have a unique twist on holiday giving with their 10th Annual Christmas Shop. Here, families can shop for brand-new gifts at just 10% of the retail price! This means that parents get to buy gifts without breaking the bank, spreading joy to nearly 200 children this Christmas.
Want to pitch in? You can contribute by checking out Eli’s Christmas shop wishlist and just have gifts shipped or drop them off at their office at 6523 1st Avenue North from Monday to Thursday, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. And let’s not forget, the deadline to donate is December 6!
3. Sugar Plum Toy Shop: Magic in the Hospital
Bringing a little sparkle to Children’s of Alabama is the Sugar Plum Toy Shop. Celebrating 15 years, this special shop provides families with a chance to give gifts to their hospitalized children at no cost. Jennifer Conway, the Director of Child Life and Education, emphasizes the crucial support the shop offers during what can be an incredibly challenging time.
You can help by donating through their Amazon registry or monetary gifts. Mark your calendar; donations are needed by December 12!
4. UAB Toy Drive: Making Christmas Bright
How about getting involved with the UAB Toy Drive? Now in its 31st year, this drive collects new, unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign. It’s a fantastic way to ensure children in the Birmingham metro area also have a Christmas to remember.
You can easily purchase gifts via their wishlist on Amazon or Target and have them shipped directly to UAB, or drop off toys at various collection boxes on campus. Mark down December 12 as the donation deadline!
5. Circle of Love: 20 Years of Holiday Joy
Last but definitely not least is The Circle of Love, which is gearing up for its 20th Annual Toy Drive! This organization partners with shelters around Birmingham to bring holiday happiness to local children in need. Doris Phillips, the founder, shares her heartfelt mission—reminded of her childhood experiences when giving meant everything.
You can shop from their Amazon wish list or drop off gifts at over 140 locations around Birmingham. Don’t delay; the drop-off deadline is December 8.
There you have it, Birmingham folks! These incredible gift drives are just waiting for you to get involved and spread some love this holiday season. Remember, every little bit helps make someone’s Christmas a little bit brighter. Happy giving!
