We’re excited to share that Strong’s Marine is once again participating in the CAST Holiday Toy Drive, spreading joy to children in need this holiday season!
The CAST Holiday Toy Drive is an annual charitable event designed to bring holiday cheer to children and families who might otherwise go without presents during the holiday season. CAST (Community Action Services and Training) is a nonprofit organization that serves individuals and families in need, providing them with essential resources like food, housing assistance, and financial support. The Toy Drive is one of their most beloved initiatives, focused on spreading joy to local children in the community.
The mission of the CAST Holiday Toy Drive is to make sure that every child, regardless of their family's financial situation, has the opportunity to experience the joy of receiving gifts during the holiday season. Each year, CAST collects donations of new, unwrapped toys from community members, local businesses, and organizations. These toys are then distributed to families who are facing financial hardship, allowing children to enjoy the spirit of the holidays with a gift of their own.
How the Toy Drive Works
1. Donations
CAST encourages people of all ages to participate by donating new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages—from infants to teenagers. These donations can be made through various donation drop-off locations or during special collection events hosted by CAST and its partners.
2. Sorting and Packaging
Once the toys are collected, volunteers at CAST help sort and organize the donations by age group and type. This process ensures that every child, regardless of their age or interests, receives something special. Whether it’s a stuffed animal for a toddler, a set of building blocks for a preschooler, or a popular video game for a teen, CAST aims to provide gifts for a variety of ages.
3. Distribution
The donated toys are then distributed to local families in need. CAST works with schools, community centers, and social service agencies to identify families who would benefit from the program. During the distribution, families are able to select toys for their children, making sure that each gift is personalized and meaningful.
Strong's Marine Team collecting toys from local North Fork Businesses
How You Can Help
There are many ways to get involved in the CAST Holiday Toy Drive, whether you’re an individual, a family, or part of a larger organization:
- Donate Toys: Consider purchasing a toy or two to donate to the drive. Be sure to check CAST’s guidelines for donation locations and recommended age ranges.
- Monetary Donations: If you’re unable to donate toys but still want to contribute, CAST accepts monetary donations to help cover the cost of purchasing additional toys and supplies.
- Volunteer: CAST is always in need of volunteers to help with toy sorting, packaging, and distribution. This is a wonderful way to get involved in the community and give back during the holidays.
- Host a Toy Drive: Many local businesses, schools, and organizations partner with CAST to host their own toy drives. If you have a space or platform, consider organizing a collection drive to benefit CAST’s efforts.
Strong's Marine Team collecting toys from local North Fork Businesses including Mullen Motors in Southold.
Impact on the Community
The CAST Holiday Toy Drive has a lasting impact on the community by fostering a sense of connection and compassion. It brings together individuals, families, and businesses who are eager to make a difference during the holiday season. Beyond just the toys themselves, the drive helps build a spirit of generosity and solidarity, reminding everyone that even small acts of kindness can have a profound effect on a person’s life.
For families facing hardship, the Toy Drive offers relief, ensuring that children are able to experience the same holiday joy as their peers. For many parents, it can alleviate some of the stress associated with providing gifts during a time when money may be tight.
A Holiday Tradition
The CAST Holiday Toy Drive is more than just an event—it’s a holiday tradition that brings the community together year after year. It’s a reminder that the true spirit of the season is found not in what we receive, but in what we give. Through this initiative, CAST continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in need, helping to create a brighter and more joyful holiday season for all.
If you're interested in learning more or participating in the CAST Holiday Toy Drive, visit their official website or follow them on social media for the latest updates on how you can get involved. Together, we can make the holidays a little brighter for those who need it most.
Toy Drive Dates:
November 18 – December 15
Collecting new, unwrapped toys.
Collection bins will be set up at the following Strong’s Marine locations starting on Nov 18:
- Main Road- 9605 Main Road Mattituck, NY 11952
- Mattituck Bay - 2400 Camp Mineola Road Mattituck, NY 11952
- Yacht Center - 5780 W. Mill Road Mattituck, NY 11952
- Water Club - 2255 Wickham Avenue Mattituck, NY 11952
