Toys for Tots kicks off early across Cape Fear as volunteers seek gifts for kids in need

WILMINGTON, NC — The annual Toys for Tots drive has officially started across the Cape Fear, with local volunteers placing donation boxes and urging residents to give now so gifts can be sorted and distributed before the holidays.

“We promote it on social media and we have boxes with the red logo that businesses can register for on the Toys for Tots website,” said Michelle Gough, who helps coordinate the Brunswick County effort.

Gough says volunteers are working with local businesses to place collection boxes now and spread the word. She says the need is expected to be greater this year due to economic concerns, which is why the effort is starting early in Brunswick County.

In New Hanover County, campaign organizer Bob Hedden said donors can give new, unwrapped toys or donate cash.

“If they’re going to write a check, they should make it out to Toys for Tots so it goes into the proper accounts,” Hedden said.

Organizers in New Hanover County plan to put out roughly 400 donation boxes in New Hanover County around Halloween and will begin picking them up about Dec. 15 to allow time for sorting and distribution. The local campaign directly serves about 300 families, with additional donations routed to area charities, police departments and partner groups.

“We have kind of a dead zone for the 10 to 13 year olds,” Hedden said. He noted that many donors give items such as basketballs and footballs, which are easy to find, but organizers welcome more creative and age-appropriate options for that age group. “But anything that folks can provide is great,” he added.

Families in need can register for assistance through the national Toys for Tots website or by contacting local campaign coordinators. Donation box locations and other collection details are available on Toys for Tots social media pages and the organization’s website.

WWAY has a collection box in our front lobby, available during regular business hours. Our address is 1224 Magnolia Village Way in Leland.