From
Clarisse Warren's blog:
It was just about a month ago when we (as a Relief Society presidency) were discussing the angel tree, that I realized that while it was nice for the needs for shoes, clothes, and other practical items to be on the list, but what kids really want are toys! So, because I can never actually keep my mouth shut, I piped up and said a nice "Well, that sucks because kids want toys!" lol. That's when I threw out the idea of having a Toy Store.
I, as a mom, make sure to clean out the toy box and the playroom before Christmas every year so that we make room for the new toys that will come under the tree. I figured other moms did the same thing, so that is where we started. We sent out mass emails to the entire ward asking people to donate their gently used toys to the Toy Store that would be available for those needing a little extra help for Christmas. We did not set a date to hold the Toy Store right away, but instead set up collection dates.
The outpouring of support was far beyond what I had expected. Not only did our ward family really come through for us, but my family and friends were supportive and gave of their gently used toys. We had a screening process for them (must have all parts, must be functional, clean, etc.), and we asked that it be something they would expect to see under a Christmas tree. What amazing items we received! We received new items, items that look like they were never used, extremely gently used items and some that while gently used were still in great condition.
Once we knew we would have a good selection of toys and other items, we set the date to hold the Toy Store. We picked a night where we could have the building to ourselves to offer the families privacy. We contacted not only those families on the angel tree, but others that we know have a lot of children or who might even possibly need a little extra something under the tree. It's hard to determine need from the outside looking in, so I am sure some people were wondering why they were invited, but we were certainly more open than we had previously anticipated being - just because we had such generous support.
Here's what our set-up looked like!
We even had a wrapping paper station. Most people didn't sit and wrap presents, but we did give away the rolls of wrapping paper and the gift bags. I certainly didn't mind giving the 3 rolls I had brought. We always have way too much wrapping paper anyway.
And this is what was left by the end of the evening: (and even a couple of these items were picked up after I took the pictures - while I was boxing things up).
We did a lot of good. Oh my heavens, we did a lot of good. A lot of lives were blessed, and a lot of children will wake up on Christmas morning with toys they are going to just love. It was wonderful to not have to limit the amount of gifts people could get for their children, and it was so touching to hear the stories of the people who came. Prayers were answered and the magic of Christmas will be alive for at least 2 children who were in danger of having to be told that Santa isn't real because they couldn't have the kind of Christmas a Santa would provide. My heart is full, my spirit is touched. I have been so far blessed by these sweet sisters (and brothers) who came to shop for their families - and by all those amazing people who donated their gently used toys for this Toy Store to happen. It was truly amazing to witness the magical spirit of this holiday come to life tonight.
I am so thankful that I opened my big mouth and wanted this to happen. What an amazing blessing this has been - not only for those families whose Christmas mornings will be a bit brighter, but for me. I needed to see what I saw, hear what I heard, and feel what I felt. I am truly thankful this evening. And it is true - Charity NEVER faileth!
