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Toy Drive 2024: Over 1,000 New Toys for Kids in Need

Writer's picture: Brian SharpBrian Sharp

Here at the Tower of Niceness, we believe that kindness can transform lives and spark hope in the most unexpected ways—especially during the holiday season. That’s why our annual Toy Drive is so close to our hearts. Every year, we gather donations and transform them into brightly wrapped gifts for children in local homeless shelters and hospitals. This year, thanks to your overwhelming generosity, we delivered over 1,000 brand-new toys and brought holiday cheer to more than 250 kids who needed a boost of joy this Christmas!




A Decade of Toy Drives: Our Origins with Sutter Hospital

Our very first holiday partnership began nearly ten years ago with Sutter Hospital. At the time, we had just a few volunteers and a modest goal: to ensure that every child spending Christmas in the hospital felt cared for and remembered. This year, we returned to Sutter with a massive truckload of toys—enough to shower over 120 children and their siblings with gifts. Volunteers waited eagerly to wrap each one, ensuring every child’s eyes would light up with excitement. It was a full-circle moment that reminded us how far our community has come in a decade of giving.




Overcoming Uncertainty at Kaiser Women’s & Children’s Center

From the moment we heard that Kaiser Women’s & Children’s Center’s bed count had doubled to over 40 children this week, our hearts went out to all those families bracing for an unexpected Christmas in the hospital. They were worried they wouldn’t have enough gifts on hand—but thanks to your donations, we delivered enough toys for every child to receive two gifts. Watching the relief wash over the staff and seeing the excitement as they realized they would have more than enough reminded us just how vital our mission is.




Warmth and Care at Wind Youth Center

Wind Youth Center is a crucial lifeline for local teens and young adults experiencing homelessness. This year, our support extended beyond toys: we arrived with $50 gift cards, new jackets, and tarps for over 30 teens seeking shelter and resources. The staff told us how quickly the weather changes can make life on the streets even more challenging. By giving these teens both something fun (gift cards to shop for themselves) and something essential (warm jackets and tarps), our community showed how deeply they are cared for.



Holiday Magic at Acres of Hope

The final stop was Acres of Hope, a transformational shelter for women and children working toward stability. Each family had a “wish list,” and we took great joy in fulfilling it. Toys, warm clothing, books, and even a few surprises were delivered—spreading holiday magic throughout their small community. Whenever we partner with Acres of Hope, we’re reminded that hope is more than a feeling; it’s a tangible force that comes to life when communities come together to meet real needs.


A Collective Thank You

None of this would be possible without you. Each year, we ask for your help. And each year, you answer our call with open arms—and open hearts. Your kindness has literally changed hundreds of Christmas mornings. Think of the children who wake up in unfamiliar places—hospital rooms or temporary shelters—and find a brand-new toy waiting for them, reminding them that they matter, that they are not forgotten, and that there is a community cheering them on.


So from all of us at the Tower of Niceness: Thank you. We hope you feel the warmth of your generosity as you celebrate the holidays. You are the reason for these smiles, and we hope you imagine all the grinning faces as the wrapping paper comes off on Christmas morning.

May your own holiday be filled with the same joy you’ve given to these children. Keep spreading niceness in every way you can, big or small, because it truly makes a world of difference.


Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Tower Team!

Thank you for your niceness.The Tower of Niceness Team

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