The wildfires tearing through LA have forced over 150,000 families to evacuate, destroying homes and leaving entire communities struggling to get back on their feet. In tough times like these, even small acts of kindness go a long way—especially when it comes to bringing some joy to kids who’ve lost everything.

One simple way to help? Donate toys. The Toy Foundation is stepping up, collecting product and financial donations to make sure kids affected by this disaster—and others across the U.S.—still get to experience the magic of play during such a rough time.

How the Toy Industry is Supporting Wildfire Relief Efforts

The specialty toy industry has taken a hit from the LA wildfires, with retailers and manufacturers dealing with losses, supply chain disruptions, and damage to their businesses. But despite all that, the response from the industry has been nothing short of incredible.

Toys for Comfort and Hope

Kids going through crises don’t just need essentials—they need something to bring them a little happiness and a sense of normalcy. That’s why The Toy Foundation’s Emergency Relief Play Grants program is making sure donated toys get into the hands of children who need them most. These toys aren’t just playthings; they’re emotional lifelines in a tough time.

Fundraisers & Toy Drives

Local toy stores and community members are stepping up with fundraisers and toy drives to make sure kids in fire-ravaged areas have something to smile about. Events like ‘Toy for a Cause’ and community fairs are bringing people together to donate and show support. Every toy, every dollar, every effort matters.

Industry Collaboration with Nonprofits

The toy industry is teaming up with big-name disaster relief organizations to get aid where it’s needed. Groups like the American Red Cross and the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles are working with toy companies and local businesses to make sure families not only get toys but also essential supplies and emotional support.

How You Can Help

Want to make a difference? Here’s where you can donate or get involved:

• The Toy Foundation’s Emergency Relief Play Grants Program – Providing toys and play experiences to kids in need. https://toyfoundation.org/
• American Red Cross Disaster Relief – Helping wildfire recovery efforts across California. https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/wildfire-relief.html
• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation’s Wildfire Emergency Fund – Supporting first responders and impacted communities. https://supportlafd.org/
• World Central Kitchen – Serving meals to displaced families and emergency workers. https://wck.org/
• YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Community Response & Action – Offering shelter, food, and relief services. https://www.ymcala.org/

Recovery Takes Time—Let’s Keep the Support Going

The immediate response is crucial, but rebuilding will take months, even years. The specialty toy industry is in it for the long haul—not just to restore businesses, but to bring comfort to kids and families hit hardest. Every toy, every donation, every act of kindness helps piece their world back together.

Now’s the time to come together and prove that even in the worst moments, we can bring light. Whether you donate, organize a fundraiser, or just spread the word, we all have a role in making things better.

Sources:

• Global Toy News

• ASTRA Toy Times, January 2025 Issue

• California Sticker image by Printerval.com

---