“Seeing first timers’ reactions are priceless. It is such a nice feeling to help take care of kids that otherwise would not be receiving toys for the holidays.” -Rich, Volunteer
During the holidays, we collect toys from many of our community partners and local organizations such as Hampton Hall, Collins Group Realty, Hampton Lake, Bluffton Police Department and Fire Department, Water Lily Cove, Berkley Hall, Moss Creek, Colleton River, WSAV, WalMart, Sun City, Dude’s Bike Run and more. It truly is a community effort to ensure every family has something under the tree. Local groups and businesses organize toy drives asking for new toys for children ages up to 12 years old. And our generous community answers the call; delivering toys to their mailboxes, decorated boxes located at their gym, clubhouse or office. They then deliver the donated toys to Bluffton Self Help to stock up our “Toy Shop!”
After Thanksgiving, half of Bluffton Self Help’s building is transformed into a toy shop, just like the North Pole. The Toy Shop is organized by age and consists of games, clothing, stocking stuffers and more. A few weeks before Christmas, parents are able to come shop for gifts for each of their children. Our volunteers act as Santa’s helpers and guide the parents through the “Toy Shop.” Each parent leaves joyfully, knowing their children will be have a smile on their face Christmas morning.
Thank you to each and every one of you who continues year after year to make our Toy Shop a reality! The businesses, volunteers, police departments, news stations and community members all come together to ensure every child has excitement on their face and in their heart on Christmas morning.
