Free toys for Christmas: How low-income families can find holiday gifts
Many national and local organizations host toy giveaways during the holiday season that can help Americans who are struggling financially make sure they have gifts under the tree this year.
Most of these free-toy giveaways require preregistration or an application, but these programs can help brighten the season by providing low- or no-cost gifts for kids.
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1. Toys for Tots#1-toys-for-tots
Toys for Tots is a national non-profit run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. The program has 800 chapters across the U.S.
To sign up for Toys for Tots, just find your local Toys for Tots chapter and fill out a “request a toy” application to be considered for the program.
2. Salvation Army Angel Trees#2-salvation-army-angel-trees
Through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, donors adopt an angel and purchase gifts they’ve requested. You may see these trees in community centers, malls, and other public spaces.
Reach out to your local Salvation Army to be considered for the Angel Tree program. In the application, you may be asked to provide:
- Photo ID
- Proof of residence
- Documentation of dependents (children)
- Specific gifts on your kids’ wish list this year, including clothing or shoe sizes
3. USPS Operation Santa#3-usps-operation-santa
The United States Postal Service’s Operation Santa program matches children’s holiday gift lists with donors from across the country. To participate in Operation Santa, kids should mail a letter to Santa by December 6.
4. United Way#4-united-way
United Way provides help to communities year-round, but your local chapter may host a holiday gift drive. Find your local United Way to learn more about gift programs in your community this winter.
5. Santa’s Little Helpers#5-santas-little-helpers
Santa’s Little Helpers is a Reddit community that helps provide holiday gifts for users in need. To participate, you must register for the program, where you’ll need to provide:
- Proof of identity (like a photo ID or bill)
- Family verification
- An Amazon Prime wish list with items that cost $30 or less
This program is meant for kids ages 0-17. And if you receive a gift, you must post a thank you note to the subreddit on Christmas, or you won’t be able to participate in the future.
4. Community groups#4-community-groups
If you’re looking for local gift drives in your area, try reaching out to mutual aid groups, nonprofits, community centers, or houses of worship in your area online or in person.
These organizations may be hosting their own gift drives, angel trees, or events to provide holiday gifts for low-income families.
5. Food banks#5-food-banks
Food banks provide essential resources year round, and the holiday season is no exception. Find a food bank near you to learn more about their seasonal programs, they may also have a toy and gift drive planned.
To qualify, you may need to:
- Bring proof of income
- Show proof of residency
- Complete an intake session or interview
