Toy Donations for TIF’s “Play Your Part Chicago” Accepted through July 15th

July 11, 2016 | Toy donations are being accepted through July 15^th for the Toy Industry Foundation’s (TIF) second annual Play Your Part Chicago volunteer event, taking place July 27^th at US Cellular Field, home of the Chicago White Sox.

Held in partnership with National CASA Association for Children (CASA), Play Your Part will bring together nearly 75 toy industry volunteers, who will hand out brand-new toys and games to 400 local foster children. Volunteers will also host game booths and activity stations for the kids, ranging in age from toddlers to pre-teens.

“The donations we receive – from plush and outdoor toys to books and entertainment items – will put smiles on the children’s faces while everyone enjoys a special day of play,” said Elizabeth Max, TIF program manager.

To date, TIF’s Toy Bank has received about 3,400 toys that will reach Chicago area foster children, including those attending the event. To make a donation, click here for the Toy Bank donation form.

New for this year, the Chicago Fire Department's Fire Awareness & Public Education Division will be at the event with a Mobile Fire Safety Learning Center, a 40-foot rolling classroom used to teach school fire safety and where the children can practice fire escape techniques. Additionally, the Illinois State Police will bring a member of its K9 unit – a bomb-sniffing dog which will demonstrate its skills by sniffing out hidden items. 

TIF’s Play Your Part program has been generating industry-wide buzz. As reported in June, the Los Angeles Play Your Part event reached 25,000 foster children in eight states, in addition to nearly 100 kids on site. TIF was honored by the California Legislature for its dedication and commitment to youth in the foster care system. 

TIF recognizes all donors on the TIF website. Donors may email Elizabeth Max if they would like to receive a Toy Bank supporter badge to place on their own website.