Toy Industry Unites to Donate $1.3 Million for Children in Need via The Toy Foundation

Toy Companies Unite to Support Children in Need

In a remarkable demonstration of collective philanthropy, the toy industry has raised an impressive $1.3 million to assist children worldwide through The Toy Foundation™ (TTF). The initiatives were highlighted during the recent Toy of the Year® (TOTY®) Awards and the Toy Fair®, both held in New York City. This significant financial contribution underscores the vital role that play has in promoting joy and comfort in children's lives, particularly in challenging circumstances.

The power of play cannot be overstated. It brings not only fun but also hope and emotional relief to children facing difficulties. As the philanthropic arm of The Toy Association™, TTF stands out as a unifying force, pooling resources from companies of all sizes to support vulnerable children. So far, the foundation has positively impacted the lives of over 35 million children from under-resourced communities, those affected by natural disasters, and those undergoing medical treatment. These efforts have delivered substantial comfort during some of the toughest times these children have faced.

The recent TOTY Awards served as a crucial fundraising event for TTF, where industry participants came together to celebrate creativity and innovation in toys. The 25th-anniversary event, which took place on February 28, welcomed nearly 700 toy industry professionals. Their involvement, along with auction participation and monetary donations during the ceremony, generated approximately $900,000, all earmarked for The Toy Foundation's initiatives.

Following the awards, the excitement continued with the 119th Toy Fair, featuring about 850 exhibitors displaying the most anticipated toys for 2025. As a testament to the industry's commitment to children, many of these exhibitors contributed toys and other items from their booths. These donations are set to benefit around 35,000 children and families, enabling TTF to deliver these gifts through its esteemed partner, World Vision, to non-profit organizations, schools, and medical facilities across the nation.

Pamela Mastrota, executive director of The Toy Foundation, expressed her gratitude by stating, "We are proud to work on behalf of the entire toy industry to bring the benefits of play to children around the world. Thank you to all who joined us at the TOTY Awards and donated brand-new toys at the close of Toy Fair. The impact we are able to create through your support is extraordinary."

Notable sponsors such as Amazon, Hasbro, and Mattel, who presented at the TOTY ceremony, also highlighted The Toy Foundation's essential Toy Chest program—an industry-wide initiative for toy donations—and the Play Fund program, emphasizing their importance in comforting children in need. Key executives echoed a unified sentiment on the necessity for industry collaboration to bring a positive change in the lives of many.

The Toy Foundation continues to engage with the toy industry year-round to ensure toys reach children everywhere. They fund play programs in children's hospitals and are prepared to respond immediately during emergencies. Companies, regardless of their size, are encouraged to join this movement to amplify the industry’s collective impact.

To stay informed and see how the toy industry plays a critical role in delivering joy, follow The Toy Foundation on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

About The Toy Foundation™

The Toy Foundation (TTF) is a 501(c)(3) organization and the philanthropic division of The Toy Association. It serves as a collective force for the toy industry's philanthropic endeavors, aiming to create a world where every child benefits from the joy, comfort, and remarkable advantages of play. Thanks to widespread support from the industry, TTF has successfully delivered play experiences to over 35 million children in need globally.