Timothy's Toy Box Could Use Your Help

In 2007, Sharon Gilbert and her son Timothy set up a non-profit corporation to help local children in need during the holiday season.

Now in its 8th year, Timothy’s Toy Box has collected and delivered more than 7,000 new toys to local homeless shelters, churches, hospitals, and schools, as well as many other local families in need.

But the Framingham-based organization does more than give gifts, it allows parents to be a part of the giving.

Timothy’s Toy Box also purchases wrapping paper, tape, scissors, tags, batteries, and blankets for the parents so that they have everything they need to create holiday memories.

“We give the children toys for Christmas that may not have received any gifts if we did not help,“ said Sharon. “We want to help as many children as we can to have a merry little Christmas!”

This year, Timothy’s Toy Box has set a goal of helping more than 300 local children in need.

Sharon said each year the organization receives a copy of all the children’s Christmas wish list items.

“We have been able to make all of their Christmas wishes come true thanks to the help of many of our family, friends, neighbors and company sponsors,” said Sharon, who wants to continue that streak this year.

If you would like to help this holiday season, this is what Timothy’s Toy Box needs:

• Donate checks made payable to Timothy’s Toy Box Inc OR donate online at www.timothystoybox.com
• Donate gift cards to places like Walmart, Christmas Tree Shop, Toys R Us, Target, Five Below, etc.
• Donate new, unused, unwrapped toys appropriate for ages Infant – 15 years.
  
• Donate gift wrap, tape, tags or batteries.
• Company toy donations - Bring a box to work so that co-workers can donate new toys.

Families may also donate new books and puzzles.

“We also bring new stuffed animals, puzzles and books to the Pediatric Unit at the MetroWest Hospital the week before Christmas so that we can try to bring smiles to the children’s faces,” said Sharon.

“Timothy and I really enjoy doing this together and we will continue to do this every year. It is a great way for kids to be involved in helping others while having fun at the same time,” said Sharon.

If you would like to schedule a pick up of a box of toys or drop off toys please email timothystoybox@rcn.com

Patch file photo