We grownups tell ourselves that Christmas is for everyone, but let’s face it: The holidays are all about the kids! I mean, is there anything better that the joy in a child’s eyes on Christmas morning?
For some families, finances are tight, and this can make the
holidays difficult. They may need help putting presents under the tree.
That’s where you come in. Several organizations in Southern Maryland collect toys and other gifts for children and people in need in our region. When you buy a toy or an item from a wish list, you’re doing more than giving a present; you’re giving the gift of joy to someone right here in our community.
There are many ways to donate gifts this holiday season. Here
are a few local programs to consider.
Not sure what to buy? These programs can always use cash donations or volunteer time.
Christmas Toy Connection
The Charles County Children’s Aid Society organizes one of the largest Christmas programs in Charles County. This established program helps 2,000 children with Christmas toys and gifts. Volunteers are even available to help parents “shop” for their children.
Website: https://childrens-aid-society.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlescountychildrensaidsociety/
Samaritan Project
Lifestyles of Maryland’s Samaritan Project assists families in need throughout the year, and during the holidays, the organization collects toys for children. Lifestyles also collects clothing and food donations. Check the wish list on Lifestyles’ website to see where the need is greatest. Lifestyles’ Adopt a Family Program allows you to purchase a food basket for a family in need this holiday.
Website: https://www.lifestylesofmd.org/
Holiday Food and Toy Drive
Community Bank of the Chesapeake is collecting food and toys this holiday season. Donations may be dropped off at any of the bank’s branches. Non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys will be accepted. Food with be distributed through the Southern Maryland Food Bank, and toys will be donated to Toys for Tots. For more information, contact Stefanie Cusick at 240-427-1048 or [email protected]. For a list of local branches, visit the bank’s website.
Toys for Tots
This nationwide toy collection program is run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in partnership with local chapters of Toys for Tots. In Southern Maryland, each county has its own chapter to manage local donations. You’ll find collection boxes at local businesses and national chains in Southern Maryland. Learn more at each county’s chapter website.
Calvert County: http://chesapeake-beach-md.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx
and https://www.facebook.com/TFTCalvertCounty/
Charles County: http://waldorf-md.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx
St. Mary’s County: http://stmarys-md.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx
and https://www.facebook.com/stmaryscountyT4T/
Main website: https://www.toysfortots.org/
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