DeKalb Residents Encouraged To Donate To 'Stuff The Bus' Toy Drive

Press release from DeKalb County:

Nov. 28, 2022

On Saturday, Dec. 17, DeKalb County Super District 7 Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson will host the 3rd Annual Stuff the Bus Holiday Toy Drive to help bring the joy of Christmas to underserved children during the holidays.

The event is open to anyone wanting to donate new, unwrapped toys to deserving children and will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lots of two locations: Northlake Mall (4800 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30345) and the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall (2801 Candler Rd, Decatur, GA 30034).

“Many residents have yet to recover from the financial hit their family took due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Commissioner Cochran-Johnson. “By donating new toys, local children can experience the joy of the holiday season and DeKalb residents can provide a sign of hope to parents who may be unable to have the type of Christmas they desire due to economic hardship.”

Toys for boys and girls ages 10-12 are highly needed, although toys for children of all ages are welcome. Some suggested items include:

• MacGregor Soccer Ball Assortment (size 4)
• Disney Collection 6-pc. Grow With Me Musical Walker
• 6 Pc. Princess Collection – AA
• Winfun Kids Fun Mic & Stand
• Basketball
• Unbelievable Science Deep Sea Eruption Kit
• Adora Sweet Baby Banana Machine Washable Baby Doll
• Bicycle and Tricycle
• Football
• Jungle Pals Playmat
• LEGO Set
• Doll Stroller
• Coloring art Table with Paper Scroll
• Over-the-door Basketball Hoop
• Art Supplies

“This is our third consecutive effort in collecting toys for underserved children and each year the turnout has grown exponentially,” said Commissioner Cochran-Johnson. “DeKalb County residents have repeatedly showed up to donate countless, toys, bikes and gadgets. We are confident many will do the same for our children this year.”

All donations collected will be given to the Marine Toys for Tots organization and distributed to local children in need. U.S. Marines will be present at the event on behalf of Marine Toys for Tots to greet residents and take photos. In 2021, the Atlanta branch of the Marine Toys for Tots organization distributed 883,332 toys and supported 441,665 children.

This press release was produced by DeKalb County. The views expressed here are the author's own.