Harlem Kids Get Special Toy Donation From Homelessness Charity

HARLEM, NY — Kids at a Harlem public school with a high percentage of homeless students got some extra holiday cheer on Monday, in the form of a toy donation from a local organization.

The gifts were presented to about 100 students at P.S. 76 A. Philip Randolph, one of two schools featured in a New York Times article last year for having a high ratio of housed students. They were donated by The Sled, a network of mothers that formed in response to the article.

Unlike many toy drives, this one gave children the chance to choose their own gifts. Stepping in as Santa Claus was Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, who donned a festive red hat for the occasion.

"I was so proud to have played a part in the effort to bring joy to the students of P.S. 76 today, and to other public schools with high ratios of underhoused students and family homeless shelters around the city by helping to deliver gifts and care packages from The Sled," Brewer said.

Thrilled to join The Sled at PS 76 to help distribute gifts to students!After sharing information about this wonderful organization in our newsletter, they were able to provide over 2000 gifts to schools and shelters throughout the city! Thank you to all who participated! pic.twitter.com/n8O40rWsa9
— Gale A. Brewer (@galeabrewer) December 21, 2020

Charles DeBerry, principal of P.S. 76, called the giveaway "very exciting for the families and staff of our community."

Since the start of the pandemic, the Sled has also helped provide groceries, clothing, coats and furniture to P.S. 76 families, including those transitioning from shelters into permanent housing.

After initially focusing on the two public schools profiled in last year's Times article, the organization has expanded to serve six public schools and six family shelters.

Related: East Harlem Filled With Toy Giveaways Ahead Of Holidays