25 Days of Giving - Day 18
What Do I Do With… Toys?
Posted by Toni Red
If your child outgrows their toys quickly, don’t throw them away! You can make another child happy by donating them. You can donate used toys to traditional thrift stores and charities, however, due to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), not all thrift stores and charities will be able to accept used toys donations.Here are some local, alternative places that will accept used toys:
- Toybrary provides a positive, clean, welcoming environment in which children, parents, and teachers can interact and learn. (7817 Rockwood, Ste 101, Austin, TX 78757)
- Any Baby Can improves the lives of children by strengthening them and their families through education, therapy and family support services. (6207 Sheridan Avenue Austin, TX 78723)
- Legacy of Hope is dedicated to serving families of children with special needs. You can call toll free 866-HOPEATX or email them atinfo@legacyofhopeaustin.org to set up a donation drop-off time.
- The Stuffed Animal Rescue Foundation is dedicated to the well-being of abandoned, outgrown, or neglected stuffed animals by finding permanent and/or foster homes for rescued stuffed animals. Email them atinfo@thesnarf.org for more information.
- Safe Place strives to end sexual and domestic violence. Be sure to check their wish list to see what they need. (1401 Grove Blvd. Austin, TX 78741)
- Blue Santa is committed to provide toys and food for families in need during the Holiday Season. You can donate toys year round at the Austin Police Operation Blue Santa’s Warehouse at: 4101 South Industrial Drive, Suite 260, Austin, TX 78744
Additionally, Austin Creative Reuse also accepts board games and puzzles!Here are some helpful tips before donating toys:
- Wipe toys down
- Make sure toys are not broken
- If you are donating toys with multiple pieces/parts, keep them together in plastic bags or tape boxes together so that they don’t get lost