East Sacramento comes alive during the holidays, and not just with decorations and celebrations. The community shows its true heart through toy drives that help thousands of local children experience the magic of the season. From major collection events to neighborhood drop-off locations, Sacramento residents have countless opportunities to spread joy and teach their families about giving back.
Where to Drop Off Your Donations
The CHiPs for Kids Toy Drive stands as Sacramento’s largest collection effort, partnering KCRA 3 with the California Highway Patrol for over 25 years. Their main event happens each December at Cal Expo, where the community donated over 8,000 toys in a single day in 2024. But convenience matters, so American Furniture Galleries locations and CHP offices accept donations from mid-November through early December, making it easy to contribute on your schedule.
Les Schwab Tire Centers operates another major drive-through at its 40 Sacramento and Stockton-area locations. Operating hours run 8 am to 6 pm Monday through Friday and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. Over five years, this partnership with the Sacramento Kings and Volunteers of America has collected more than 30,000 toys for children facing homelessness, poverty, or foster care.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento welcomes donations at their Administration Office on Lemon Hill Avenue, focusing on kids ages 6-18. Their distribution takes place at holiday parties, where children pick out their own gifts, creating memorable moments of joy and dignity.
Organizations Working Together
Sacramento’s toy drive success depends on partnerships between multiple groups. Local businesses provide drop-off locations and resources. Faith communities organize collection efforts and partner with larger initiatives. Nonprofits like Volunteers of America, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Blessings in a Backpack coordinate distribution to families in need.
The Sacramento Kings demonstrate corporate commitment through their Season of Doing Good initiative, collecting donations at Golden 1 Center during home games. Fans bringing toys valued at $20 or more receive tickets to future games. Schools, fire stations, and community centers serve as additional collection points throughout Sacramento neighborhoods. If you’re interested in exploring more about community giving opportunities, local Sacramento neighborhoods offer various ways to get involved throughout the year.
Teaching Kids About Giving
Getting your family involved starts with simple conversations about why some families need help during the holidays. Shopping together for toys turns abstract concepts into concrete action. Children can select age-appropriate gifts and accompany parents to drop-off locations, learning empathy through hands-on experience.
Many Sacramento families make participation an annual tradition. Some organize mini drives at school, while others volunteer at sorting events. These experiences create lasting memories while teaching important values about community responsibility.
Real Stories of Impact
The numbers tell an impressive story. In 2024, CHiPs for Kids collected over 8,000 toys and $4,000 in gift cards. A collaboration between CBS Sacramento and United Way provided over $255,000 in gifts to more than 800 families.
But the personal stories matter most. Miracle Jackson, a recipient, shared, “I didn’t have anything planned for Christmas. No gifts, no anything, so this is really big to me.” Another parent noted, “It’s nice to know that there are still people out there who care for families.” These donations represent more than presents; they show children their community values them.
What East Sacramento Needs Most
Toy drives accept new, unwrapped gifts for all age groups. Infants need board books and soft toys. Elementary kids appreciate board games, art supplies, and sports equipment. Teenagers prefer gift cards, journals, and electronic accessories. Organizations also welcome wrapping supplies, gift bags, and tape. Most donation deadlines fall in mid-December to allow time for distribution before the holidays.
East Sacramento’s generous spirit transforms difficult circumstances into moments of joy for thousands of children annually. Whether you donate one toy or organize a workplace drive, your contribution matters. Check organization websites for specific deadlines and wish lists, then join thousands of neighbors making the holidays brighter for local families.
Sources: kcra.com, bibsac.org, lesschwab.com, bgcsac.org, cbsnews.com, eastsacramento-ca.townsites.org
Header Image Source: Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto
