As Garry L. Landreth once said, "Toys are children's words and play is their language".
Toys and play are essential tools for children and the formation of brain development. Not only that but seeing a child enjoy a toy is one of the simplest joys we get to see unfold. As we grow older, our desire or need for play lessens, and therefore, our need for toys also decreases. However, not all kids in America are fortunate enough to receive toys and thus miss out on that core piece of development.
Daughters of Zion Enterpryz is one of our members whose mission is to build healthy individuals and families in low-income, underrepresented, and disadvantaged communities and to close the gap between homelessness and food deprivation. They do this through local initiatives, learning programs, partnerships, and more.
This past December, during our Difference Makers Campaign, the Alliance community got to participate by donating over 300 toys to Daughters of Zion Enterpryz's yearly Toy Giveaway.
At this giveaway, hundreds in the community come to pick out toys, drink hot cocoa, eat some snacks, and visit Santa. The smiling faces in these images show just how touching these generous toy donations were to the families and youth. In total there were 258 kids in attendance who walked out with one or multiple brand-new toys.
One participant said, "I couldn’t afford presents this year, so having something to put under the tree is great.”
Another said, "This is great what you all are doing for the community."
Something as simple as a book or a doll can truly be life-changing for a child and even their family. What a treasure to be able to see a child's face light up at the sight of a new toy!
Check out this video on Instagram!
