No paid staff since 2012.
This whole drive runs on volunteers.
The people who collect, sort, and deliver tens of thousands of toys each season are neighbors who gave a few days. The most help is needed from mid-November through the end of December.
Three jobs move every toy.
Sorting, driving, and distribution. Pick what fits the time and the back you have.
Sorting
Every donated toy passes through the warehouse in San Jose. Volunteers unpack collection boxes and stage toys for delivery.
Driving
Bins and boxes move all season: out to partner sites in the fall, back full in December, then on to the organizations that requested toys. If you can drive, say so on the application.
Distribution
In late December, toys leave the warehouse for the community organizations that put in requests for the families they serve.
When the season needs hands.
Early November
Boxes go out
Partner drives open November 1. Collection boxes need delivering across the Bay Area.
December 18
Collection closes
Boxes come back to the warehouse and sorting picks up. This is the stretch where every pair of hands counts.
Late December
Toy Day
The biggest distribution push of the season, and the last one.
Before you apply.
- No experience needed.
- The application asks your availability and whether you can lift or drive.
- The volunteer agreement is part of the application, so one form covers everything.
- Groups are welcome. A company or organization can sign up a whole team on one application.
Anything else is answered on the FAQ or through the contact form.
