As parents, we often find ourselves surrounded by toys that our children have outgrown. Rather than letting these toys gather dust, why not make a difference in another child’s life by donating them? Toronto is home to many wonderful organizations and initiatives that would gladly accept your used toys, ensuring they find a new home with less privileged children. For those looking to make an even bigger impact, the best food banks in Toronto needing donations is a great resource for fighting hunger. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to donate your toys in Toronto, providing all the necessary information so you can easily contribute to these worthy causes. From children’s hospitals to local charities, discover Toronto’s best places to donate your toys and make a positive impact today. Read on to find out the top places to donate your toys in Toronto and how you can bring joy to a child’s life through toys donation in Toronto.
15 Places to Donate Used Toys in Toronto
- SickKids Hospital
- Toronto East General Hospital
- Salvation Army
- Covenant House Toronto
- Furniture Bank
- Jessie’s Centre
- St. Felix Centre
- The 519
- Red Door Family Shelter
- Yonge Street Mission
- Toronto Fire Fighters Toy Drive
- Holiday Toy Drive at Toronto City Hall
- Goodwill Industries
- Oasis Clothing Bank
- Value Village
SickKids Hospital
SickKids Hospital is one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. Known for its exceptional pediatric care, SickKids Hospital not only provides top-notch medical services but also focuses on the emotional well-being of its young patients. Donating toys here can bring a smile to a child’s face during a challenging time. What sets SickKids apart is its commitment to creating a comforting environment for its patients. Toys play a significant role in this mission, helping children cope with their hospital stay and treatment. Donating to SickKids is a direct way to support their holistic approach to pediatric care, making it one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Donations must be new or gently used, clean, and free of any potential hazards. Plush toys should be in excellent condition and freshly washed.
Accepted Items: SickKids accepts a variety of toys, including stuffed animals, board games, books, and educational toys. Electronics and battery-operated toys are also welcome, provided they are in working condition.
Distribution: The toys are distributed to various departments within the hospital, including waiting areas and patient rooms, ensuring that children across the facility benefit from your generosity.
Address: 170 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON M5G 1E8, Canada
Contact: +1 416-813-1500
Toronto East General Hospital
Toronto East General Hospital, now known as Michael Garron Hospital, is another excellent option for toys donation in Toronto. This community-focused hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to children and families in the East Toronto area. Toronto East General Hospital emphasizes community involvement and holistic patient care. Donating toys helps enhance the hospital’s pediatric services, providing a sense of normalcy and joy to children undergoing treatment. With its strong community ties and dedication to pediatric care, this hospital stands out as one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: The hospital accepts new and gently used toys that are safe and hygienic. Items should be free of any potential choking hazards and suitable for hospital use.
Accepted Items: They welcome a variety of toys, including puzzles, books, arts and crafts supplies, and non-toxic, easily washable items. Battery-operated toys are accepted if they are in good working order. For those looking to donate more than toys, the top places to donate old books in Toronto offers great options to help your community.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed throughout the hospital’s pediatric units, including waiting areas and inpatient wards, to provide comfort and entertainment to young patients.
Address: 825 Coxwell Ave, East York, ON M4C 3E7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-461-8272
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is renowned for its extensive charitable work and is a prime location for the best toys donation in Toronto. Known for helping vulnerable populations, the Salvation Army ensures your donated toys reach children in need across various communities. The Salvation Army’s robust network and established reputation make it a reliable choice for donating toys. Their focus on aiding families in crisis and providing support through various programs ensures that your donation has a meaningful impact. This makes the Salvation Army one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto, helping bring joy and comfort to countless children.
Donation Guidelines: The Salvation Army accepts new and gently used toys. Items should be clean, functional, and free from safety hazards. They particularly appreciate educational and developmental toys that can aid in a child’s growth and learning.
Accepted Items: They accept a wide range of toys, including dolls, action figures, board games, puzzles, and outdoor play items. Seasonal toys, like those suitable for holidays, are also welcome.
Distribution: Toys donated to the Salvation Army are distributed through their network of shelters, family services, and community centers. They also use toys for their Christmas toy drives, ensuring that children in need receive gifts during the holiday season.
Address: 160 Jarvis St Toronto, ON M5B 2E1
Covenant House Toronto
Covenant House Toronto is a beacon of hope for homeless youth, making it one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. Known for providing comprehensive services to at-risk youth, Covenant House offers shelter, educational programs, and mental health support to help young people rebuild their lives. What sets Covenant House apart is its holistic approach to supporting youth. By donating toys, you contribute to their mission of offering a safe and supportive environment. This not only helps the youth to relax and enjoy their time at the shelter but also aids in their emotional and psychological well-being. Covenant House’s impact on young lives makes it one of the best donation options in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe. Items that promote learning and development are highly appreciated.
Accepted Items: Covenant House accepts a variety of toys, including board games, puzzles, books, and arts and crafts supplies. Electronic gadgets and educational toys are also welcome, provided they are in good working condition.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed among the youth staying at Covenant House. They help create a nurturing environment, providing much-needed recreation and a sense of normalcy for young people in crisis.
Address: 20 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M5B 2P3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-598-4898
Furniture Bank
Furniture Bank is a unique and impactful organization, making it one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto. Known for helping families transition out of homelessness and settle into their new homes, Furniture Bank accepts household items, including toys, to support these families. Furniture Bank’s mission is to transform empty spaces into homes filled with hope. For those looking to donate beyond toys, the best places to donate furniture in Toronto provides excellent options to support local organizations. By donating toys, you help bring joy and stability to children as they adjust to their new living situations. The organization’s commitment to supporting families in need makes it one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and in good working condition. Donations should be free of any potential hazards and suitable for children of all ages.
Accepted Items: Furniture Bank accepts a wide range of toys, including stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, and books. They also appreciate donations of arts and crafts supplies and outdoor play equipment.
Distribution: The toys are distributed to families through Furniture Bank’s programs. These toys help to furnish new homes, providing children with a sense of comfort and belonging in their new environment.
Address: 25 Connell Ct #1, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1E8, Canada
Contact: +1 416-934-1229
Jessie’s Centre
Jessie’s Centre is a vital resource for young mothers and their children, making it one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. The center provides comprehensive support, including healthcare, education, and childcare, to help young families thrive. What makes Jessie’s Centre unique is its focus on young mothers and their children, providing them with the tools and support they need to build a better future. Donating toys here directly benefits children in a critical stage of their development, making a significant impact on their lives. Jessie’s Centre stands out as the best place to donate your toys in Toronto, supporting young families and fostering a community of care and support.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children. Items that are educational and promote development are particularly valued.
Accepted Items: Jessie’s Centre accepts a variety of toys, including baby toys, books, puzzles, and educational games. They also welcome donations of arts and crafts supplies and developmental toys for toddlers and young children.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed among the children and families who utilize Jessie’s Centre’s services. These toys help create a nurturing environment, supporting the growth and development of the children.
Address: 205 Parliament St, Toronto, ON M5A 2Z4, Canada
Contact: +1 416-365-1888
St. Felix Centre
St. Felix Centre is a community-focused organization known for providing support and services to vulnerable populations in Toronto. It is one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. St. Felix Centre offers various programs, including meal services, housing support, and recreational activities, making it a vital resource for those in need. St. Felix Centre’s emphasis on community and inclusivity makes it unique. By donating toys, you directly support their mission to foster a safe and nurturing space for everyone. This approach makes St. Felix Centre one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto, ensuring that your contributions make a meaningful impact.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children. Items should not pose any choking hazards and should be in good working condition.
Accepted Items: The center accepts a wide range of toys, including stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, and arts and crafts supplies. Electronic toys in working order are also appreciated.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed to children and families who use the center’s services. They help create a welcoming and supportive environment, providing joy and entertainment to children who may be experiencing difficult times.
Address: 25 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2K7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-203-1624
The 519
The 519 is a vibrant community center dedicated to the inclusion and support of LGBTQ+ communities in Toronto. It is one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto, especially for those looking to support diverse and inclusive environments. The 519 offers a variety of programs and services, including youth support, family programs, and community events. The 519’s focus on supporting LGBTQ+ families and fostering an inclusive environment sets it apart. By donating toys here, you contribute to a space where all children feel welcomed and supported. This commitment to inclusivity and community makes The 519 one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and free from any safety hazards. Items that promote inclusivity and diversity are particularly appreciated.
Accepted Items: The 519 accepts a wide range of toys, including books, board games, educational toys, and arts and crafts supplies. Toys that encourage learning and creativity are especially valued.
Distribution: Donated toys are used in various programs and events organized by The 519. They are distributed to children and families participating in these programs, helping to create an inclusive and supportive community atmosphere.
Address: 519 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C9, Canada
Contact: +1 416-392-6874
Red Door Family Shelter
Red Door Family Shelter is a well-respected organization providing emergency shelter and support services to families and individuals in need. It stands out as one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto due to its comprehensive approach to supporting vulnerable families. Red Door Family Shelter’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for families in crisis makes it unique. By donating toys, you help to enhance the lives of children and families during a difficult time. The shelter’s comprehensive support services and dedication to family well-being make it one of Toronto’s best places to donate your toys.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children. Items should be free of any potential hazards and suitable for various age groups.
Accepted Items: The shelter accepts a variety of toys, including stuffed animals, board games, puzzles, books, and educational toys. Arts and crafts supplies are also welcomed.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed to children and families residing in the shelter. These toys provide comfort and a sense of normalcy to children during their stay, helping them cope with the challenges they face.
Contact: +1 416-915-5671
Yonge Street Mission
Yonge Street Mission (YSM) is one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto, known for its extensive support services for low-income families and individuals. YSM provides a wide range of programs, including emergency relief, employment services, and youth support, helping to uplift the community and provide hope. YSM is dedicated to providing holistic support to the community. By donating toys, you contribute to their mission of transforming lives and creating lasting positive change. This dedication to comprehensive care makes YSM one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children. Ensure that toys are complete and in good working condition to be suitable for donation.
Accepted Items: YSM accepts a variety of toys, including educational toys, board games, puzzles, books, and arts and crafts supplies. Electronic toys and stuffed animals are also welcome if they are in good condition.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed through YSM’s programs and events. They are given to children and families in need, helping to brighten their lives and provide a sense of normalcy and joy.
Address: 306 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2G7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-929-9614
Toronto Fire Fighters Toy Drive
The Toronto Fire Fighters Toy Drive is an annual event that stands out as one of Toronto’s best places to donate your toys. Organized by Toronto’s firefighters, this toy drive aims to collect toys for children in need during the holiday season, ensuring no child goes without a gift. The Toronto Fire Fighters Toy Drive is unique due to its wide reach and community involvement. It not only brings joy to children during the holidays but also fosters a spirit of giving within the community. The firefighters’ dedication to helping those in need makes this drive one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: The toy drive accepts new, unwrapped toys. Items should be safe and suitable for children of various age groups.
Accepted Items: A wide range of toys is accepted, including dolls, action figures, board games, puzzles, books, and arts and crafts supplies. Educational toys and electronic gadgets in working condition are also appreciated.
Distribution: The collected toys are distributed to children through various local charities, shelters, and community centers. This ensures that the toys reach the children who need them the most, particularly during the festive season.
Address: 2041 McCowan Rd UNITS C & D, McCowan Rd, Scarborough, ON M1S 3Y6, Canada
Contact: +1 416-338-3339
Holiday Toy Drive at Toronto City Hall
The Holiday Toy Drive at Toronto City Hall is a prominent annual event that offers a convenient and impactful way to participate in toys donation in Toronto. This city-organized drive collects toys to distribute to less privileged children during the holiday season. The Holiday Toy Drive at Toronto City Hall is known for its large-scale impact and community engagement. By participating, you join a collective effort to make the holiday season brighter for many children. This well-organized and highly accessible drive is one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto, making it easy for everyone to contribute to a great cause.
Donation Guidelines: Toys must be new and unwrapped. The drive focuses on collecting safe and suitable toys for children of all ages.
Accepted Items: Accepted donations include dolls, action figures, board games, puzzles, books, and arts and crafts supplies. Educational and electronic toys in good working condition are also welcome.
Distribution: The toys collected at City Hall are distributed to children through local shelters, community centers, and charitable organizations. This ensures that the toys reach a wide range of children across the city, bringing holiday cheer to those in need.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries is one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto, known for its dedication to helping individuals facing barriers to employment through job training and employment services. By donating toys to Goodwill, you support their mission while helping those in need. Goodwill’s focus on providing employment opportunities makes it unique. By donating toys, you contribute to their efforts in job creation and skill development, benefiting the entire community. This multifaceted approach makes Goodwill one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and in good working condition. Ensure that all pieces are intact and the toys are safe for children.
Accepted Items: Goodwill accepts a wide variety of toys, including stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, and books. Electronic toys are also welcome if they are functioning properly.
Distribution: Donated toys are sold in Goodwill retail stores, with proceeds funding their employment and training programs. Additionally, toys may be distributed directly to families in need through various community initiatives.
Address: 2837 Dufferin St, North York, ON M6B 3S4, Canada
Contact: +1 416-546-9476
Oasis Clothing Bank
Oasis Clothing Bank is an excellent option for toys donation in Toronto, known for its support of individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Oasis provides a range of services, including housing support and vocational training, helping individuals rebuild their lives. Oasis’s dedication to assisting individuals with addiction and mental health issues, combined with their extensive community outreach, sets them apart. Donating toys here supports both the children and their families, making it one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. Extend your generosity by checking out the top places to donate used clothing in Toronto, helping more people in need.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children. Items should not have any missing parts or potential hazards.
Accepted Items: Oasis accepts various toys, such as stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, books, and arts and crafts supplies. Electronic toys in working order are also accepted.
Distribution: Donated toys are distributed to families in need through Oasis’s various programs and community partnerships. They help provide comfort and joy to children whose families are receiving support from Oasis.
Address: 60 Carnforth Rd, North York, ON M4A 2K7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-751-0553
Value Village
Value Village is a well-known thrift store chain and one of the best places to donate your toys in Toronto. They partner with local nonprofit organizations to support community programs through the resale of donated items. Value Village’s partnership with local nonprofits ensures that your toy donations have a broad impact. By donating, you support community initiatives and provide affordable toys to other families. This unique approach to fundraising and community support makes Value Village one of the top places to donate your toys in Toronto.
Donation Guidelines: Toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe. Items should be in good working condition with all parts intact.
Accepted Items: Value Village accepts a wide range of toys, including stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, and books. They also accept electronic toys that are in good working condition.
Distribution: Donated toys are sold in Value Village stores, and a portion of the proceeds supports their nonprofit partners. This model helps fund local community programs and provides affordable shopping options for families.
Address: 1319 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1P3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-539-0585
Key Takeaways
- Toronto offers numerous places to donate used toys, including hospitals, community centers, non-profits, and thrift stores.
- Donating toys helps bring joy to less privileged children, supports families in need, and contributes to community programs.
- Ensure toys are new or gently used, clean, and safe for children before donating.
- Commonly accepted toys include stuffed animals, board games, puzzles, books, educational toys, and arts and crafts supplies.
- Each organization has its own mission and way of distributing toys, such as supporting homeless youth, families in crisis, or funding employment programs.
- Participating in seasonal toy drives, like the Toronto Fire Fighters Toy Drive and the Holiday Toy Drive at City Hall, can make a significant impact during festive times.
- Donating toys not only benefits recipients but also fosters a spirit of giving and community support in Toronto.
FAQs
- What types of toys can I donate to Goodwill Industries?
Goodwill accepts stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, books, and working electronic toys. For those interested in buying new toys, the best toy stores in Toronto offers great shopping options. - Are there specific guidelines for donating toys to Covenant House Toronto?
Yes, toys should be new or gently used, clean, and safe for children, especially educational and developmental toys. - What kind of toys does Oasis Clothing Bank accept?
Oasis accepts stuffed animals, educational toys, board games, puzzles, books, and working electronic toys. - What are the best places to donate toys for children with special needs in Toronto?
Consider donating to SickKids Hospital and The 519, which cater to diverse and special needs. - Can I donate used books along with toys to Jessie’s Centre?
Yes, Jessie’s Centre accepts books as well as toys, especially those that are educational and developmental. - What does Value Village do with the donated toys?
Value Village sells the donated toys in their thrift stores, with proceeds supporting local nonprofit partners. - Is there a minimum number of toys required to donate to Salvation Army?
There is no minimum number; you can donate as many or as few toys as you like, provided they meet the guidelines.