As Jews around the world face a period of fear and darkness, Chai Lifeline announces the launch of its annual toy drive to bring joy and distribute chanukah gifts to 25,000 children in the US and Israel. The recipients are children impacted by serious illness, crisis and loss in their immediate family. This year, Chai Lifeline will also be making a special effort to support the families in Israel doubly impacted by serious illness and the war against Hamas.
Gifts lists for each family are carefully curated to meet the specific needs or interests of the child who will receive them. Amazon wish lists are available online for those wishing to contribute towards the toy drive, as well as local stores and schools serving as drop off points in the various Chai Lifeline regions around the country. For some families, the gifts get delivered to their homes or to hospital rooms, while others will receive their gifts at local Chai Lifeline Chanukah parties or events.
“At a time where the world feels so dark, the power of Chanukah has always been to prove that light can penetrate through even the darkest places,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “Our motto has always been to bring Simcha and light to children facing personal or medical crises, and this year it is even more important among so much tragedy for our people. It is our sincere hope that the children of Israel who have experienced so much loss and confusion over the past few weeks will be able to have a holiday of happiness and hope for far better days ahead.”
To find out more about how you can support this year’s drive or get involved visit www.chailifeline.org/toys
Can I donate new toys for the Chanukah toy drive that are not on the Amazon list? Where can they be dropped off in the 5Towns-Far Rockaway area? Until when?
Hi Chai Lifeline,
I am a middle school student at Harvard Westlake and am a leader of the Jewish Students Club. I would love to take part in your mission to make a better Hanukkah for the children in Israel and was wondering if my school could host a toy drive. Also, how would we got our donations to you, to then get to Israel? Is it possible to drop them off? Please let me know and thank you so much!
– Alex
Dear Chai Lifeline,
I am the JCAAC (jew club) leader for Harvard Westlake Middle School. We would like to take part in a toy drive for Israel and have a few questions. If Harvard Westlake can host a toy drive, can we drop off the toys somewhere for you to ship, or do you pick the toys up from us? Please let me know when you have the chance!