HOLIDAY HELPERS TOY DRIVE A SUCCESS

2020 may have been difficult and stressful for many Keys’ families, but thanks to the generosity of local individuals and businesses, our Keys kids were able to enjoy Christmas.

For 9 years, Wesley House Family Services has organized a county-wide toy drive known as “Holiday Helpers”. This year the toys were shared among S.O.S. Foundation, Salvation Army/Kids Come First, Early Learning Coalition, Florida Keys Healthy Start and The Guidance Care Center.

“Typically, businesses host large parties to collect toys and Wesley House hosts our annual lighted bike ride to assist in collecting toys. Due to COVID, these events were canceled,” said Wesley House CEO, Aleida Jacobo. “December 1st, I was very concerned about the number of toys we had received. By December 5th we had received thousands of dollars in donations and the Amazon boxes were arriving daily.”

“We had created an Amazon wish list to streamline the shopping process. With a few posts on Facebook, the community really stepped up,” Jacobo said. “Because of the generosity of our donors, we were also able to spend thousands of dollars at local family-friendly businesses throughout the Keys to purchase gift cards and more toys for the kids. This was a true win-win for everyone. The businesses appreciated the large purchases, and the organizations were pleasantly surprised by the bonus of gift cards this year.” In Key West and the Lower Keys, gift cards were purchased from Tropical Vibes, Mattheesen’s, Smoothie Shuttle, Lady Nails, Lee Nails, The Butterfly Conservatory, Imagination Station, Books & Books, Key West Island Books and Boondocks Miniature Golf. Gift Cards were purchased to Aquarium Encounters in Marathon and The Escape Room and Chocolate Factory in Key Largo.

“For a record year, Wesley House had 30 families adopted by individuals and local businesses. Families and children let us know their wants and needs and these adoptees made their desires happen. It was very heartwarming to know these families would have a wonderful Christmas. Gifts ranged from toys, clothes and grocery store gift cards,” said Wesley House Development Coordinator Grace Epperly.

“It takes a community to make this event happen. We appreciate everyone who donated toys, placed angel tags or a toy box at your business, adopted a family, or gave a monetary donation,” said Epperly.

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]