A warning about wrapped toy donations.

[Baitball Blogger]

I don't want to discourage anyone from making these toy for tots type of donations. Definitely give as much as you can afford. But I'm writing the following in the hope that the powers that be can follow thru and confirm that those gifts are being distributed properly.

In January a few years ago, we had reason to drop off quite a bit of clothing at a charitable organization. The front was set up like a thrift store where volunteers had sorted the "merchandise" into recognizable piles. In this store, the items were still priced. However, the owner told me that they often gave out vouchers to people who could not afford to pay. He also told us to go to the back and drop off the things we were contributing and a volunteer would be there to receive them.

So, we go to the back and walk in and there in a huge pile was a stack of gift wrapped Christmas presents. Again, this was January. A woman was going through them, looking at the tags apparently to look for something that was age appropriate for her kid.

I asked someone why they hadn't been distributed before Christmas. But they shrugged.

I can't explain to this day what happened.

[ejpoeta]

1. you aren't supposed to wrapt those are you? i personally have decided to

go individual. i see folks who need help and help them personally.

[Baitball Blogger]

2. Yes, many organizations want it wrapped, and you're suppose to put the

age and sex of the child which the toy is meant for.

I need to connect with an organization that I feel most comfortable with. For years I gave to the Vietnam Viets and another one that are basically set up to be thrift stores. I would prefer to give to an organization which connects directly with people who are in personal need.

[ejpoeta]

3. yes you need to find an organization that you feel comfortable with.

i happen to know people who need help so i help them. and the school is taking care of a family or some families also. find what works for you.

[Viva_La_Revolution]

4. leftovers happen

my guess was they were for certain age groups, babies or young kids. there are never enough toys for ages 10+ and the teenagers are almost always left out.