Marge Crispin Center Calls For Toy Donations As Holidays Near

BRAINTREE, MA — The holidays are likely to feel very different this year, not only because of stay-at-home orders but also because of job loss and the largely devastating financial impact of the coronavirus.

In fact, data from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts shows another 25,831 people filed for unemployment benefits in the week ending on Dec. 5, up 2,100 from the week prior. The state's Bureau of Labor and Statistics further estimates Massachusetts lost 340,200 jobs between October 2019 and October 2020.

As a result, a significant number of children in Massachusetts face the possibility of receiving few to no gifts this holiday season.

That's where the community comes in. The Marge Crispin Center — a non-profit that supports residents in need of emergency aid, food and adult and senior services — is asking for donations of toys for area children in need.

Residents who are able to give are asked to donate toys for girls and boys between ages 8 and 11. The center said items like board games, basketballs, soccer balls, makeup kits, jewelry kits and sports team items are among needed items.

Toys can be donated at the Braintree Police Department, located at 282 Union Street, until 4 p.m. on Sunday.