Wellington’s annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive has once again demonstrated the power of community and generosity. The village collected toys from Thursday, Nov. 14 through Friday, Dec. 6, and residents did not disappoint, coming together to ensure that no Wellington child would go without a gift this holiday season.
Thanks to the kindness of local families, businesses and organizations, this year’s toy drive has been one of the most successful to date. The village set up several convenient drop-off locations across Wellington to make it easy for residents to donate. Toys were accepted at the Lakeside Market on Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater, at Village Hall, Village Park, the Wellington Community Center and the Wellington Tennis Center.
As the toy collection period came to a close, the toy distribution event took center stage. It was held Wednesday, Dec. 11 at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, where volunteers worked diligently to assist parents from selected families in choosing gifts for children. The distribution provided a heartfelt and joyful moment for many families in the area, and organizers were grateful for the overwhelming support from the community.
Jenifer Brito of the village’s Community Services Department expressed her appreciation. “This is truly a community-driven initiative, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, and partnered with the village. It’s a beautiful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together as a community,” she said.
Looking forward, the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive continues to be a cherished tradition in Wellington. With each passing year, the event grows in size and generosity, bringing the community closer together and spreading holiday cheer to more families. As Wellington moves into the new year, the village remains committed to ensuring that every child has the chance to experience the joy of receiving a special gift, and they are eager to continue this tradition of giving in the years to come.
The success of this year’s Hometown Holiday Toy Drive serves as a reminder of how much can be accomplished when the community works together, making the season brighter for those who need it most.
