Growing up, one of my most vivid December memories was pulling a tag off the giving tree at school for the Buxton Toy Box. I’d search for a child close to my own age—someone who might love the same things I did. Then came the part that felt truly magical: choosing a special gift and placing it in the collection box, knowing the volunteer “elves” would wrap it and deliver it to a child right in our own town.
It might’ve been a Barbie doll or a pack of Matchbox cars, but what stayed with me was far bigger than the toy. It opened the door for conversations about gratitude, generosity, and how fortunate we were to have our needs met—and to be able to help another family during the holidays.
Now that I’m a parent, I’ve made sure to continue that tradition with my own kids. Their schools share a list of students quietly in need, and each year we choose a child (or two) together. Letting kids participate in the shopping, the choosing, and the giving teaches compassion in a way nothing else can.
If your family is in a position to purchase a gift for a child who may not otherwise receive one—or if your own child could receive one less toy so another child can experience that same holiday joy—I encourage you to join in.
Below is a list of programs, many right here in our area, where your donation will directly support local children this season.
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Local Gifting Programs You Can Support
It Takes a Village – Gift Program
Donation Locations:
- Better Fit Fitness (Standish)
- Standish Hannaford
- Limington Dollar General
- & More
Ways to Give:
- Purchase items directly from their Amazon Wishlists
- Connect with the organizers to “adopt” a specific child
- Give a monetary donation.
Learn more:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CnZ7vh9Az/
Westbrook Santa Cause
This volunteer-led program ensures local children receive holiday gifts tailored to their needs and interests.
Donate here:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/help-a-local-child-in-need-this-holiday-season
Buxton Toy Box
A long-standing tradition in our community. Look for red tags hanging on trees at many Buxton locations.
How it works:
- Choose a red card
- Purchase the item listed
- Drop your unwrapped gift at the noted location
All donations stay within Buxton to support local families.
Toys for Tots (Cumberland County)
A well-known national program with local drop spots.
Local Drop-Off Partners:
- Bill Dodge (Westbrook)
- The Good Feet Store (Westbrook)
- & many more
Find a full list or donate online:
https://topsham-me.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/donate-toys.aspx
Other Ways to Give
Every town handles holiday assistance differently, so be sure to:
- Check with your town office
- Ask at your child’s school
- Ask local churches, fire departments, and community groups
You may find smaller, hyper-local wish lists or adopt-a-family programs that directly support families right in your neighborhood.
A small act, a lasting lesson
Gifting programs aren’t just about toys—they’re about teaching our kids empathy, kindness, and the importance of looking out for one another. Even one small gift can spark joy for a child and offer relief for a family navigating a difficult season.
If you’re able, consider taking part in one of these programs with your family this year. It truly does take a village—and together, we can make the holidays brighter for every child in our community.
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