This holiday season, some residents may be wondering what they could do to help their neighbors, especially during a rough year in Long Beach for many.
From children and parents needing help with gift purchases, to seniors needing some kind words of encouragement, local orgs have planned plenty of ways to lend a helping hand.
This list of toy drives and volunteer opportunities are just a small portion of what Long Beach has going on. If you want to help someone this holiday season, reach out to a nonprofit you’re already familiar with and ask if they need volunteers, or ask your neighbors (both housed and unhoused) if they need anything to survive the next couple of months. A small act of kindness can go a long way for someone struggling.
Know of a toy drive or volunteer opportunity we should add to this list? Send it to us at Newspaper@SignalTribune.com.
Toy drives and Volunteer Opportunities
Toys for the Department of Children and Family Services – Bethany Church (2250 Clark Ave.) is hosting a toy drive for children in foster care and is asking for the public to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the church by Sunday, Dec. 7. Since the toys will go to youth up to the age of 20, gift cards are also accepted if they are put into a small bag.
Long Beach Police – The Long Beach Police Department is hosting its annual Toy Patrol, and residents can donate new and unwrapped toys at participating businesses throughout the city until Dec. 14. These toys will go to families in need and families who receive services through the City’s Trauma Recovery Center. Find the full list of toy drop-off locations on the LBPD website.
Act and Pack Day: Bring hope and joy to a senior in need by packing gift bags, crafting ornaments and writing homemade cards for local seniors at The Sports Basement (2100 Bellflower Blvd.) on Dec. 13 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. RSVP by calling 562-570-3548 or emailing hello@heartofida.org.
Daisy Lane Work Day: Join neighbors as they prep and decorate Daisy Lane for the annual parade the next day. All supplies and refreshments will be provided, and decorations will stay up and be lit nightly from Dec. 13 to Dec. 26 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Call 562-570-7777 with any questions.
COA Toy Drive: Donate new, unwrapped toys to Christian Outreach in Action now through Dec. 6 at 515 E. Third St.
Gift Wrapping: The Long Beach Walking Club is volunteering at the Women’s Shelter of Long Beach to wrap gifts for children who are spending the season in the shelter. RSVP with the club through their Instagram @longbeachwalkingclub.
