At this time of year, when consumerism can take precedence over the true spirit of the season, it is important to remember the epigram that “it is better to give than it is to receive.” What better way to exemplify this ethos to yourself and to model simple ways to give back to your children than by donating a toy or other holiday gift item. When shopping for your loved ones this holiday season, if you’re fortunate enough to be able to help, a simple way to make a big difference in the life of a young child or older teen is to donate to at least one of the area toy drives listed here. Please consider gifting toys and other age-appropriate items for toddlers, elementary, middle school students, and high school students. Check with specific locations if you’re unsure of what to donate.

The Lighthouse Mission

The Lighthouse Mission is doing their annual Christmas drive again this year in partnership with the South Country School District. Donations can be brought to their main building, located at 1543 Montauk Highway in Bellport, now through Friday, Dec. 16. “Last year we provided gifts for over 500 children, so this year we are expecting all types of toys from infants to 18 years old,” said Emily Ryan, the office manager of the Lighthouse Mission.

The Rotary Club of Bellport

This 2022 holiday season, The Rotary Club of Bellport is offering their community service to sponsor the Angels of Long Island’s Christmas Miracle Program. New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the location box situated in front of the garage door at the northwest corner of Country Club Road and South Country Road. Toys can be brought there any day between Nov. 20 and Dec. 3. Please consider gifting items for toddlers through high-school age.  Gift cards for local fast food, 7-Eleven, pizza, and similar items are accepted for high school students. The Bellport Rotary Club has generously purchased more than $400 in toys to kick-start the project.

Brookhaven Village Association’s Holiday Cheer Event

The Brookhaven Village Association invites you to add some extra love and holiday cheer to the community on Saturday, Dec. 10 (rain date Dec. 11) from 3 to 5 p.m. in Fire Place Park in Brookhaven Hamlet. This is their third annual community gathering to celebrate the reason of the season together. The event will include a food and toy drive, decorating the community tree, live music with Cass House, and ornament and card-making activities.

The Town of Brookhaven’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Brookhaven Town supervisor Edward P. Romaine and superintendent of highways Daniel P. Losquadro invite you to the Town of Brookhaven’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with a special appearance by Santa Claus, Friday, Dec. 2 at 6 p.m. at the Holtsville Ecology Site, located at 249 Buckley Road in Holtsville. This event will also have a toy drive. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child in need.

Bobbique

Visit Bobbique on Friday, Dec. 2 from 7 to 10:30 p.m., located at 70 W. Main Street in Patchogue, for a holiday toy drive. This event will be in support of The John Theissen Children’s Foundation. It will also feature live music by Bubba Jam Blues Band. Please bring an unwrapped toy for a boy or girl. It is presented by WUSB’s Mark Klein. n