‘Tis The Season To Be Generous
Photo by Freepik
The holidays are a season of celebration, togetherness, and generosity. But for many families in our community, this time of year brings more challenges than cheer. That’s why FunTimes Magazine is joining forces with Fruits of The Family Table, Abiding Truth Ministries, and MERCY worldwide to host a Christmas Toy Drive & Giveaway once again in 2024—a heartwarming initiative to light up the holiday season for children in need.
This isn’t just about toys. It’s about hope, compassion, and creating a moment of magic for families who may not otherwise have the means to celebrate. Together, we can make this season one to remember for the children who need it most.
Here’s how you can join hands with us to bring smiles to the faces of children and their families this Christmas.
A Community Effort to Spark Joy
This Christmas Toy Drive is about more than just gifts. It’s a chance to bring together neighbors, friends, and organizations to celebrate the true spirit of the holidays: giving. With your help, our goal is to provide toys to 96–100 children up to 18 years old, spreading joy, love, and hope to families who need a little extra support.
Last year, thanks to your generosity, 96 children were served. The excitement in their eyes and the gratitude from their families were reminders of the difference we can make. This year, we’re striving to do even more, and we need your help to make it happen.
How You Can Make a Difference
There are so many ways to contribute, and every gesture, big or small, brings us closer to our goal.
1. Donate a Toy
Bring the magic of Christmas to a child by donating a new, unwrapped toy. These toys will go directly to children in our community at the Free Toy Giveaway Event.
Drop-Off Locations:
- 932 E Hunting Park Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19124
Drop-off hours: Sundays, 1:00–2:00 PM - 846 S. 57th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Call 215-476-7225 to coordinate drop-offs
Deadline: All toys must be donated by Wednesday, December 18 to ensure they’re ready for distribution.
2. Financial Contributions Are Welcome
Not sure what toy to buy or can’t make it to the drop-off locations? You can still make an incredible impact by donating financially. Contributions will help us purchase toys and organize a memorable event for the children.
Donate via Zelle:
- Send your donation to phl.admin@usd21.org
- Include “2024 Toy Drive” in the notes
3. Attend the Free Toy Giveaway Event
For families in need, the Free Toy Giveaway Event is a beacon of joy during the holiday season. Join us for an afternoon of food, games, photo opportunities with Santa, and, of course, the magical moment of receiving a gift.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, December 21, 2024
- Time: 1:00–4:00 PM
- Location: Abiding Truth Ministries, 846 S. 57th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Important Notes:
- Registration is required for children to receive a toy.
- Children must be registered and present at the event to receive their gift.
- Registration closes on Thursday, December 14, so don’t wait!
Why This Matters
For many children, the holidays are a magical time filled with laughter, love, and the anticipation of gifts under the tree. But for families facing financial challenges, this season can be a painful reminder of what they cannot provide.
Your donation—whether it’s a toy, a financial contribution, or your time—helps bridge this gap. Imagine the joy on a child’s face as they unwrap a gift chosen just for them or the relief in a parent’s heart knowing their child feels seen and loved. These moments of happiness create lasting memories and inspire hope during difficult times.
Meet The Pillars of This Program
This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our community partners. Together, we’re turning compassion into action.
Fruits of the Family Table (FOTFT)
FOTFT is committed to restoring families and building stronger communities. Through therapeutic services, education, mentorship, and advocacy, they address critical issues like substance use disorders, parenting challenges, senior care, and reintegration after incarceration.
Vision: A community free from the struggles of addiction, neglect, and systemic challenges, where families can thrive together.
Abiding Truth Ministries
A church rooted in Afro-bibliocentric and culturally aware values, Abiding Truth Ministries uplifts the community through spiritual and social connection. Their work focuses on empowering individuals and families to reconnect, grow, and heal.
Vision: To reconnect the disconnected, uplift the disenfranchised, and create holistic opportunities for spiritual and social well-being.
MERCYworldwide
With a mission inspired by the compassion of Jesus, MERCYworldwide transforms lives through service to the less fortunate. Their work embodies the values of empathy, empowerment, and transformative care for those in need.
Vision: Compassionate service that creates opportunities and transforms lives around the globe.
A Day Full of Joy and Festivities
The Toy Giveaway Event isn’t just about distributing gifts—it’s a celebration of community and togetherness. Families will enjoy a day packed with:
- Delicious food to bring everyone together
- Fun games that spark laughter and smiles
- Photo opportunities with Santa, creating magical holiday memories
- Gift-giving moments, where children unwrap surprises chosen just for them
It’s a day to forget life’s challenges and revel in the joy of the season.
How You Can Help Today
Here’s a quick summary of how you can contribute:
| How to Help | Details |
| Donate Toys | Drop them off at 932 E Hunting Park Ave (Sundays 1–2 PM) or 846 S. 57th St (call 215-476-7225). Deadline: December 18. |
| Give Financially | Donate via Zelle to phl.admin@usd21.org with “2024 Toy Drive” in the notes. |
| Register for the Event | Registration closes December 14. Children must be registered and present to receive a toy. |
| Volunteer Your Time | Help us with organizing, setting up, and creating a memorable event for everyone. Reach out to us to get involved! |
The True Spirit of Christmas
This season, let’s come together to create a story of love and generosity. Your kindness could be the reason a child believes in the magic of Christmas this year. Whether you’re donating a toy, volunteering your time, or helping spread the word, you’re a part of something truly special.
Let’s show the power of community and bring joy to children and families who need it most.
Together, we can make the 2024 Christmas Toy Drive & Giveaway the most magical one yet. Will you join us?
Donate. Volunteer. Spread the cheer.
