TIF Brings Toys to Foster & Military Kids in September

September 14, 2012 | On Thursday, September 13th, the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF) hosted two important toy distribution events that brought play, joy and hope to hundreds of children in need.

In the Bronx, New York, TIF and strategic partner My Stuff Bags Foundation donated more than 50 “My Stuff” duffel bags to two incoming classes of kindergarten students at Mott Haven Academy, the nation’s only public charter school for at-risk students in foster care or the child welfare system. Filled with toys, toiletries, stuffed animals, handmade blankets, and more, the duffels helped kick-off the charter school’s fifth academic year, bringing smiles to the faces of these children who oftentimes leave their homes and arrive at unfamiliar places with nothing of their own.

More than a thousand miles away in Puerto Rico on the same afternoon, kids and teens living on U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen also received gifts from TIF. Through the Foundation’s Play Comforts partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Military Services, brand new stuffed animals, dolls, games, science kits, costumes and DVDs were delivered to nearly 250 children during a fun-filled family carnival complete with games and a barbecue dinner. Founded in 2009, the Play Comforts partnership has provided more than 200,000 toys to families living far from home; by the end of 2012, TIF and its generous donors will have brought play to families on 65 U.S. military bases.

“At the Toy Industry Foundation, we think every child deserves joy through play,” said Jean Butler, TIF executive director.  “The children at Mott Haven Academy and Air Station Borinquen are no different.  We were thrilled to be able to give them new toys and games – and to show them that we really care!”

Companies interested in making a contribution to the Foundation for events like these can find out how on The Toy Bank website. Those who would like to donate product samples at the close of Fall Toy Preview (Oct. 2-4, 2012) are encouraged to let TIF know in advance of the show.