In normal years, Volunteer Alexandria fills multiple portable storage units with thousands of toys for Alexandria's children. This year, those toys will be gift cards, due to coronavirus concerns.
Volunteer Alexandria is partnering with the City of Alexandria to sponsor hundreds of local families as a part of the Holiday Sharing Program. Each family will receive a grocery gift card for a holiday meal and a $75 gift card to Target for each child to buy toys, clothes and other items.
To make a donation, head to the Volunteer Alexandria Toy Drive website here.
“More than ever, these families need our help,” Volunteer Alexandria wrote in a press release. The Holiday Sharing Program has been running for more than 20 years.
"Financial and emotional stress dampen the holiday cheer of our neighbors in need. This is especially true this year. For more than two decades, with the help of our community, the Holiday Sharing Program has helped ensure a joyous holiday for Alexandria’s low-income families," according to Volunteer Alexandria.
While some gift cards have already been delivered, the second set will be distributed on December 4 and 5.
The City is also seeking gift cards for teens and children who may come into foster care over the coming weeks. Gift cards to grocery stores for families and seniors are also requested.
Donating online is preferred, but gift cards can be mailed or delivered to: Holiday Sharing Program, Department of Community and Human Services, 2525 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301.
Volunteer Alexandria is a nonprofit organization that inspires and mobilizes people to volunteer for a stronger Alexandria community. Opportunities to volunteer are available through VolunteerAlexandria.org.
