Toy drive provides gifts for loved ones

By Mary Thompson Charlebois

Each year, Dallas 24 Hour Club (The 24) — a nonprofit that provides transitional living, support services and essential life skills for homeless alcoholics and addicts so they can embrace long-term sobriety and become contributing and self-supporting members of the community — hosts a Resident Toy Drive with the support of the community. Residents of The 24 are parents, grandparents, aunts and/or uncles who, for many years, have been unable to provide a gift for their loved ones. The 24’s Toy Drive offers residents the opportunity to “shop” for gifts and wrap up their items for gifting this holiday season. This important event has opened communication for residents to reconnect with family and loved ones, an important part of the recovery process. 

Gifts can be purchased through Dallas 24 Hour Club’s Amazon Wish List, which includes a range of toys and books for all ages, from newborns to teens. Toys will be collected from now through December 8, and residents will be able to shop the selections at a holiday event on December 10, at Dallas 24 Hour Club. Volunteers will wrap gifts and spread holiday cheer during this joyous celebration. Santa will even make an appearance!

“Our annual Toy Drive is a beloved tradition at The 24 and is so important for our residents, as gift giving offers an opportunity for many to reconnect with their families,” said Marsha Williamson, CEO Emeritus of Dallas 24 Hour Club. “Last year, we collected nearly 200 toys, and we are grateful to those who have supported us over the years by shopping our Amazon Wish List. We hope you will consider shopping and supporting our residents this holiday season.”

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