TOYS FOR TOTS
Throughout St. Johns County, the familiar white boxes marked with a bright red toy trains appear at the entrances of stores, offices, and county buildings each holiday season. It is important these Toys for Tots collection bins do not fade into the background of all the holiday decorations. They represent a long-standing mission led by the Marine Corps Reserve to bring hope, generosity, and joy to local families in need. From October through December, volunteers work tirelessly to gather thousands of brand-new toys, ensuring that every child can experience the magic of the holidays. As these boxes fill across the county, they serve as powerful reminders that even the smallest act of giving can make a lasting difference in the life of a child.
www.staugustine-fl.toysfortots.org
MEMPHIS’ MISSION
On Christmas of 2024, Jason and Cheyenne Kroul awoke to every parent’s nightmares. Their daughter, Memphis, was admitted to Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital and diagnosed with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, marking the start of her fight. During her hospital stay, the family received a bag of donated toys that brightened their day in a difficult time. After Memphis’ miraculous recovery, this simple act of kindness inspired them to begin a mission to hold a holiday toy drive to help brighten the holidays for children at Wolfsons. Through December 5th, the Krouls, in partnership with the SJSO Office of Public Affairs and Community Engagement, are collecting brand-new toys. To make donations, email miraclememphis25@gmail.com
EMPTY STOCKING FUND
Many families across St. Johns and Putnam Counties are unable to purchase gifts to put beneath the tree each year. Through its Empty Stocking Fund, United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties partners with local organizations – The Salvation Army, Council on Aging, Catholic Charities, St. Johns County Fire Rescue, Pie in the Sky, Palatka Christian Services, and Family Integrity – to strengthen their local holiday programs that provide food, clothing, and toys for local families and seniors. Everyone deserves to experience the joy of the season, from gathering around good food to sharing laughter and feeling connected. You can help fill a stocking by making a monetary donation to the United Way of St. Johns County online or by mail. www.unitedway-sjc.org/emptystocking MEALS FOR THE HOLIDAYS On December 11th the Tabitha Furyk Foundation will provide food and supplies to package over 6,000 holiday meals. From 6-8pm families, schools, teams and other community groups will package Hope for the Holidays meal bags to distribute to those struggling with food insecurity across Duval, Clay, and St. Johns Counties.
www.jimandtabithafurykfoundation.com
