BENEFITING:
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Our Story
We are very excited about our 10th Annual Toy Drive benefiting the Russell J. Ebeid Children's Hospital and Nationwide Children's Toledo to help brighten a child's life this holiday season and beyond!
The toy drive started in 2015 in McKenna's AP Psychology class as I wanted to brighten a child's holiday with a toy or stuffed animal. That year, we collected 1,500 toys. Since 2015 we have expanded our toy drive regionally, and we have donated 51,000 toys and almost $15,000 in just 9 years to the Toledo Children's Hospital, now the Russell J. Ebeid Children's Hospital.
Any child from 0 to 18 years old receives a "toy" when admitted, has scans or testing done or is in the emergency room. This "toy" helps calm the patient and eliminate their fears while bringing a smile to their face. This toy drive is not only for the holiday season but in hopes of keeping the Treasure Chest full all year long!
The toys will be delivered on December 17, 2024!
“This teddy bear that my 6 month old daughter received before going under anesthesia put the biggest smile on her face warmed my heart. We then received several more items when she went into the hospital a month later with pneumonia. Not only does it bring comfort to the child, but more importantly to the parents.”
—McKenna Reitz
"My son had an emergency surgery for a ruptured appendix and ileocecectomy at the beginning of the school year. The child life department at Toledo Children's Hospital was incredible and made our 7-day hospital stay bearable. They provided toys, stuffies, games, puzzles, etc. for my son to play with and support during every tough procedure. Of course, I thought of your psychology class and felt proud to work for Springfield, knowing that many of the toys were likely donated by Springfield students and families."
-Arica Hoge
4th Grade Teacher
Dorr Elementary
Promedia Junior
Philanthropist of the Year
2016
