It’s that time of year again! Orlando’s annual toy drive is kicking off for it’s 11th year on Friday, December 2. In celebration of one of our favorite events, we thought we would look back on how this event started and how it’s grown over the past few years.
What started as a 5-day event, it eventually grew to EIGHT nights of giving. But each year one thing remains the same, Orlando will climb 30 feet in the air and sleep in a tower to raise money and gifts for children of Tampa Bay. It’s moved from St. Pete, to Dale Mabry on Tampa, to now Westshore Mall. The toy drive has always benefitted The Children’s Home Network, who has been serving foster kids and families in Tampa Bay since 1892. The bikes, balls, gift cards and dolls all are shared with thousands of children in need.
Let’s take a look on how Orlando’s Toy Drive has benefitted Tampa Bay children throughout the years. 2020 seemed to have been our biggest year, but let’s see if we can break records in 2022!