Editor’s Note: This blog was previously published in October 2023 and has been slightly updated for accuracy and clarification – November 2024.
Kids love toys! And when kids are in the hospital, toys have a special kind of magic.
Studies show that toys can aid in the healing process, create a sense of normalcy, and bring moments of happiness to them. “It’s more important than ever to collect toys for children in hospitals,” says Curtis Valentine, General Manager, Car-Mart of Rogers, Ark. Every year, Curtis and his team are on a mission to collect thousands of toys for kids.
That’s why, every November, Car-Mart hosts its annual Holiday Toy Drive, delivering joy and cheer to kids in the hospital during the holiday season.
“Getting a toy while in the hospital, especially during the holidays, can have a huge impact on a child’s well-being,” Curtis continues. “This is the reason behind our Holiday Toy Drive.”
The joy of toys for kids in the hospitals
Parents with children in the hospital understand the significance of toys.
“I know what it feels like from a parent’s standpoint to have my child pick out toys. You get stuck at the hospital and wonder how you will have Christmas for your kid,” says Angie Purter, Area Operations Manager, Prattville, Ala. Angie’s daughter, Makyah, spent a few Christmases at the hospital. [Learn more about Makyah’s journey].
“If there’s a child in the hospital over the holiday, they are already going through so much, and they know it’s Christmas time,” says Taylor Hernandez, Regional Operations Support Manager, Region 4. “I can relate to how the parents must feel. They’re stressed and worried about how their child will have Christmas. So, when the hospital provides Christmas, it’s very special.” Taylor’s son, Eddie, was a nine-year-old patient at a children’s hospital. [Learn more about Eddie’s story].
Toys are motivation for kids
“It’s so hard to be a child in the hospital during the holidays. That’s the main reason these toy drives are so important. The kids can feel the support of the community behind them. And they know the community is rallying around them,” says Rebecca Neely, Senior Development Officer at Arkansas Children’s. “Throughout the year, our nurses and doctors can give toys to kids who are having a tough time because of the community’s support” [Read more about the Magic of Toy Drives.]
All toys collected from the Holiday Toy Drive are given to hospitalized children and their siblings for use during the holidays or year-round. “It’s about the family. Putting a smile on their faces – even if it’s for 15 minutes,” concludes Crystal Kuster, Assistant Small Claims Manager, Claremore, Okla., and the organizer of Car-Mart’s first toy drive. “If we can remove them from their reality and help them forget what’s going on, that’s what it’s all about – giving them a moment of happiness.”
Give a Toy, Share the Joy
Discover the joy of giving this season! Join us in making a difference by learning about our exciting Holiday Toy Drive. All toys will be delivered to local children’s hospitals and organizations.
