As we prepare for the hustle and bustle of the 2023 holiday season, recent news pointing to the doubling of the child poverty rate reminds us that many lower-income families will struggle to provide holiday gifts for their children. Unfortunately, inflation and the ending of pandemic relief programs have created yet another spike in need in communities across the country.
More than ever, caring community members want to be sure kids in need have a truly happy holiday season, complete with the opening of presents. Thankfully, holiday toy drives raising toys for kids in need are a tradition in communities across the country.
But collection box toy drives have trouble meeting the rising need. Hybrid and remote workplaces make in-office drives a logistical nightmare and the increase in online shopping for everything from shoes to food means less traffic in stores acting as toy collection sites. That’s where YouGiveGoods comes in. YouGiveGoods, the e-commerce platform that enables corporations, groups, and individuals to run virtual drives raising brand-new items for nonprofits, has become a valuable tool in getting holiday gifts to kids in need during these changing times. Check out our current holiday toy drives - new ones are getting underway everyday!
Tips for hosting a YouGiveGoods toy drive
- Start ASAP: Your toy drive is virtual which means you need to account for shipping time to your selected nonprofit. Does your nonprofit have a planned distribution event for the kids? Be sure to back into a drive end date that allows ample time for shipping in time for the event. (Allow 5-15 days from your drive end date for delivery)
- Choose Your Nonprofit: YouGiveGoods virtual drive platform is specifically for raising goods for nonprofits*, so be sure you’ve chosen a recipient organization that is a registered 501(c)3. YouGiveGoods works closely with Toys for Tots so if you don’t have a recipient organization in mind, we can help you select a Toys for Tots location in your region. Contact us at eventspecialist@yougivegoods for assistance.
- Enlist Support: Expand your reach beyond family and friends when you enlist the support of your employer, school, church, or club. Contact our Event Specialists to learn more about why so many companies choose YouGiveGoods for their employee giving programs.
- Share Frequently: Don't be shy about emailing and posting about your drive frequently. Remember the marketing “rule of 7” which says that someone needs to see a message an average of 7 times before they act on it.
Remember, we're here to help you every step of the way. Contact us at eventspecialist@yougivegoods.com or reach a representative on our live chat M-F 9am - 5pm (EST). However you choose to support your neighbors in need this holiday season, whether via YouGiveGoods or another method, we applaud you for your efforts and hope your good deeds enrich your own holidays this year!
*In addition to nonprofits, YouGiveGoods drives may benefit public schools and select government agencies
