The holidays are a time for joy, laughter and giving special gifts to our loved ones. However, for some families struggling with rising costs, this can be a source of increased stress and potential disappointment for children who would have to go without.
That’s why, each year, Safe & Sound hosts a Holiday Toy Store, giving parents the opportunity to book a shopping appointment so they can browse and choose the perfect gift for their child, from items generously donated by individuals and businesses.
What makes this initiative so special is not just the outcome, but how teamwork from all our staff and wider community brings it together. To create this magical 3-day event takes a huge effort from people across the organization, taking on tasks such as: receiving donated gifts; making an inventory; booking timed shopping sessions with families to ensure a stress-free and efficient process for the shoppers; receiving, collecting and unboxing deliveries; setting up and decorating the store to make it a cheerful and welcoming holiday themed space; staffing the store during the browsing time; and providing childcare for the parents shopping. Every role matters, and every act of support contributes to the joy that fills our space.
Seeing the magic of the festive season come to life for the children while easing some of the pressure for their parents and caregivers, makes it all worthwhile. We were delighted that more than 300 families came to shop at the Toy Store last weekend, choosing gifts for over 630 children during the three days.
This year we were honored to have San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie stop by to see the Toy Store in action and chat to some of the shoppers and staff.
The holiday toy store initiative is entirely funded and stocked by generous donations. If you would like to support us this holiday season so we can continue our vital work and give even more offerings next year, please donate today.
