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The holidays can be a fun, joyful time for many. However, there are families in need of extra support. Here is a list of resources for those who are experiencing financial hardship and have trouble affording or cannot afford toys this year.

Play it Forward

When: Saturday, December 16 | 12 – 2 p.m.

Location: David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222

While the sign-up period has closed, the event will welcome walk-ins for any remaining toys. No sign-up is required. Learn more on the Play it Forward site.

Toys for Tots

The date, time, and location will vary. To sign up, visit the Toys for Tots site and follow the directions below:

1. Select “Request a Toy”

2. Select “Click Here for the Local Chapter Search Tool”

3. Select your state, “Pennsylvania”

4. Select your county.

Locate the most convenient distribution site from the listed options or contact the respective site.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army may be able to offer holiday assistance for toys, meals, or other needs. Contact the nearest Salvation Army community center or visit the Western Pennsylvania Angel Tree page.

1. Click on the “Holiday Assistance Contact List”

2. Locate the Salvation Army community center listed for your zip code.

3. Contact them as soon as possible. Holiday programs are limited and fill up quickly.

St. Vincent de Paul Society of Pittsburgh

For those facing financial difficulties and unable to afford toys, consider contacting the local St. Vincent de Paul conference in their neighborhood. To locate the closest conference, please visit the St. Vincent de Paul site.

General Information

The listed resources are intended for public access. It’s important to note that these organizations operate with volunteers. Considering the limited availability of toys and programs, along with the significant number of families in need, they might only be able to provide one toy per child. These toys could be either new or gently used.

When contacting these organizations, if directed to voicemail, individuals should leave a comprehensive message including their name, contact number, and any additional information requested by the organization. Given the high volume of calls received weekly, it might take several days for volunteers to return calls. Regularly checking voicemail is recommended. For those without voicemail, setting it up before calling is advised. Additionally, individuals with existing voicemails should ensure old messages have been deleted.