The Best Places to Donate Toys for Christmas in Redding, CA for 2024

Hey there, neighbors! The 🌟holidays🌟 are here, and you know what that means – it’s time to spread a little extra joy🫶🏼. If you’ve been thinking about giving back this Christmas season, donating toys🧸 is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to make a difference. Whether you’re looking to clear out some gently used items or pick up a few new goodies for a great cause, I’ve rounded up the best places in Redding, CA, where your generosity will truly shine.

Let’s dive right into some amazing local spots and organizations that could use your help!

Toys for Tots: A Christmas Community Favorite

We’ve all heard of Toys for Tots – and for good reason. This nationwide program, run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, has been bringing smiles to kids’ faces for decades. Here in Redding, they’re a powerhouse of holiday cheer.

How to Donate:

• Drop off new, unwrapped toys at designated locations around town. Popular spots often include Walmart, Target, and local fire stations.

• Pro tip: Keep an eye on their website for updated drop-off points and deadlines.

Why it’s Great: Toys for Tots ensures that every child, no matter their circumstances, has a present to open on Christmas morning. It’s a heartwarming mission that’s easy to support.

Salvation Army: Doing the Most Good for Christmas

The Salvation Army’s holiday programs go beyond toy donations – they’re about creating unforgettable family moments. Their annual "Angel Tree" initiative lets you pick a child’s wish list and shop specifically for them.

How to Donate:

• Visit their Redding location or check out local businesses hosting Angel Tree tags.

• Drop off your gifts at the designated collection sites.

Why it Matters: This program connects donors with specific families, making the experience feel personal. Plus, they’re always looking for volunteers if you’d like to give your time, too.

Stuff the Bus: Filling Hearts and Toy Bins for Christmas

'Carrying holiday cheer on wheels,' Stuff the Bus is an annual toy drive organized by The Salvation Army in collaboration with local businesses and media outlets. It’s a fun and effective way to collect toys for children in need.

How to Donate:

• Drop off new, unwrapped toys at participating locations like Carl’s Jr. restaurants and Les Schwab Tire Centers.

• Check local announcements for the exact dates and times of collection events.

Why It’s Special: Stuff the Bus combines community spirit with convenience, making it easy for everyone to participate. Plus, the toys go directly to local kids, ensuring your generosity stays close to home.

Good News Rescue Mission: Spreading Joy to Families in Need for Christmas

The Good News Rescue Mission is a cornerstone of our community, offering support to families year-round. During the holidays, they accept toy donations to make sure every child feels the magic of the season.

How to Donate:

• New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at their facility on South Market Street.

• They also welcome monetary donations to supplement their toy drive.

Why We Love It: This organization serves families in our community who need it most. It’s about more than toys – it’s about hope.

Shasta Regional Community Foundation: Local Love for Christmas

If you want to keep your contributions hyper-local, the Shasta Regional Community Foundation’s holiday giving programs are a fantastic choice. They partner with smaller nonprofits to distribute toys and gifts.

How to Donate:

• Check their website or social media for details on specific drives or campaigns they’re supporting this year.

What Makes Them Special: They’re deeply connected to our area, ensuring that every donation stays right here in the North State.

Second Chance Toys: Gently Used, Greatly Appreciated toys for Christmas

Got toys your kids have outgrown? Second Chance Toys is all about reducing waste and making sure no toy goes unloved. They accept gently used plastic toys and give them a new home.

How to Donate:

• Clean up those toys and check their guidelines online.

• Drop them off at a participating location in town (call ahead to confirm).

Why It’s Awesome: You’re helping the planet AND bringing joy to kids. It’s a win-win!

6. Local Churches and Community Centers

Many churches and community centers host their own toy drives or partner with larger organizations. This is a great way to give back while staying connected to your neighborhood.

Examples:

• Redding Christian Fellowship often hosts holiday giving events.

• Neighborhood church events typically include toy drives as part of their outreach.

Why It’s Personal: These drives often focus on helping families in their immediate congregation or community, making your donation feel even more meaningful.

Quick Tips for Toy Donations

1. Keep it New or Gently Used: Most organizations prefer new Christmas toys, but some accept gently used items in great condition. Always check donation guidelines!

2. Think Variety: Consider toys for all age groups, especially tweens and teens – they’re often overlooked.

3. Skip the Wrapping Paper: Many organizations ask for unwrapped toys to simplify sorting and distribution.

4. Add Some Heart: Including a handwritten note can make your donation extra special.

   
   

Wrapping Up (Pun Intended)

So, what’s the plan? Whether you’re supporting a big name like Toys for Tots or dropping off gifts at a local church⛪️, every act of generosity counts. Imagine the smiles🥰 you’ll bring to kids’ faces – and let’s be real, there’s nothing better than that.

This season, let’s come together as a community and make Redding shine✨ even brighter. Have any favorite toy donation spots I missed? Share them in the comments – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy holidays and happy giving! – Crystal