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Neighborhood Centers Host 7th Annual Holiday Toy Drive

November 14
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Media contact:
Maureen Alley, communications director
608-513-3962
malley@wisconsinyouthcompany.org

Neighborhood Centers Host 7th Annual Holiday Toy Drive
Toy drive benefits low-income, Madison-area children and teens

red banner announcing 7th annual toy driveMadison, Wisconsin (Friday, November 14, 2025) — Elver Park and Theresa Terrace Neighborhood Centers, operated by Wisconsin Youth Company, host their 7th Annual Holiday Toy Drive to bring holiday joy to families in southwest Madison. In 2024, 86 percent of children and teens served by the neighborhood centers qualified as low-income, as recorded by center data. This can make the holidays difficult for these families. With community support, parents and caregivers of the youth in centers’ programs can have toys, games, and other gifts to share this holiday season. 

“When we give together, we grow together. Donating toys not only brings happiness to local children, but it also strengthens the sense of care and connection that makes our community thrive. Your generosity helps every child feel seen, valued, and ready to play,” says Jennifer Weber, director of neighborhood centers, Wisconsin Youth Company. 

The Holiday Toy Drive relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and organizations to donate new, unwrapped toys that will be distributed to children and teens who might not otherwise receive gifts during the holidays. Donations are accepted at donation sites through December 7 and purchased from an Amazon Wish List through December 12. 

To support this toy drive, community members can: 

  1. Make a monetary donation. You can fill the gap in gifts to ensure every child and teen gets a meaningful present by donating. 
  2. Check out the Amazon Wish List to purchase gifts and ship them directly to the neighborhood center or use this list as inspiration.   
  3. Purchase gift cards for restaurants and stores near Elver Park Neighborhood Center. Gift cards make great gifts and are especially appreciated by middle school  program participants. 
  4. Drop off gifts at one of the donation stations before December 8. All donated items will be collected throughout this week:  

In mid-December, the neighborhood centers will host a free event offering parents and caregivers the chance to “shop” donated items. This allows families to choose gifts tailored to the interest of their children and the ability to gift them according to their family’s traditions and beliefs. 

Learn more about the centers.

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