Chicago's Time-Honored Holiday Toy Drive Seeks Donations for Families in Need

Helping Bring Joy to Chicago's Families

The Annual Christmas Store Event organized by Marillac St. Vincent (MSV) Family Services has been a beloved tradition in East Garfield Park for over six decades. Each year, it brings hope and joy to countless families, ensuring they have a memorable holiday season filled with love, warmth, and gifts.

As the festive season approaches, MSV gears up for its event scheduled for December 21, where over 250 families, ranging from parents to grandparents, are invited to shop for essential items and toys. Volunteers play a crucial role, helping in various capacities including stocking merchandise, wrapping gifts, and loading car gifts for families.

Cortland Williams, a parent who benefits from the program, shared her heartfelt appreciation: "The Christmas store means a lot to me and my family. I am a single mother of four, and this initiative not only provides gifts but also coats, hats, gloves, and food items—key essentials that my family truly needs. The volunteers create such a welcoming environment, making the experience so much more special."

How to Support the Cause

The success of this year's event relies heavily on generous donations from individuals and organizations. Here are three ways you can help:
1. Purchase Toys via MSV's Amazon Gift List: You can easily shop for toys for children aged 0-12 through the direct link to MSV’s Amazon wish list, ensuring that your contributions reach them directly.
2. Make Direct Toy Donations: If you prefer, new toys can be dropped off or sent to the Foglia Family Youth Center located at 2859 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612, with the attention to Margarita Brewer. Please ensure that all donations arrive by December 18.
3. Financial Contributions: Monetary donations allow MSV to purchase additional toys and ingredients for holiday meals. Funds also cover wrapping supplies, ensuring every aspect of the event is catered to.

It’s crucial to note, due to ongoing safety concerns in the communities served, MSV requests no weapon-like toys, including foam or plastic guns and water guns, ensuring a safe and joyful experience for all children.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are always in high demand. Set-up for the Holiday Store takes place between December 18-20, where individuals are invited to help decorate the venue, organize toys, and pack grocery bags. On event day, volunteers assist families by helping them shop, wrapping gifts, and managing merchandise tables. Those interested in contributing their time can sign up online or directly contact Colleen Mulcrone, the MSV Volunteer Manager, for guidance.

The impact of Marillac St. Vincent Family Services extends beyond just this event; the organization has been providing unwavering support to those in need in Chicago for over 100 years. Through various programs such as early childhood education and community outreach, MSV fosters resilience and joy among the city's residents.

To learn more about how to get involved or to donate, please explore MSV's Christmas Store online. Your contribution, in any form, can help make this holiday season brighter for so many families.

For further inquiries or media-related questions, contact Lana Simon at myWHY Agency, Inc.