2023 Holiday Toy Drive
The Sickle Cell Association of Texas, Marc Thomas Foundation has been proudly serving Texas Sickle Cell warriors and their families for over 25 years. This holiday season we are extending an invitation for you to get involved in the festivities.
Our annual holiday parties are a highlight to our families. From those who live with the condition, to their caregivers, it’s a chance to gather, have some laughs, and give their children a chance to play. We gather with those who experience first hand the impacts of Sickle Cell, and look to lighten their load. All of the families we serve are welcome to enjoy some community, respite, and comfort among others who understand.
For 2023, we are going LIVE again, in person! We understand that Covid is still with us, so each gathering will follow local recommendations on Covid precautions. In most cases, wearing a mask is encouraged but optional.
We will be hosting parties in Austin, San Antonio, and Houston through the month of December. Some will be a more modest toy drive through, others a come and go reception style brunch wake up, and others will be more elaborate. We will be in our best pajamas, and you can be too!
Hundreds of clients attend in total, and events include sickle cell education, nibbles, beverages, and smiles all around. Our social workers are available for those with questions and our hearts are open for those with heavy burdens.
Will you participate this year to bring joy to these families? See the many ways you can help below.
Ways you can contribute financially:
- Donate toys and gift cards – pick up available for many areas
- Donate money – click here for secure link
- Shop on Amazon for select toys with our custom links
- Donate party supplies, food, beverages to the parties
Events being held in the following cities:
Austin, San Antonio, Houston
Suggested Gift Items:
- Gift cards – restaurants, theaters, electronics stores, grocery stores, toy stores
- Toys – most clients are 10 years old and older
- Experiences – massages, train rides, trips to zoo, concerts, performances, beauty shop visits
- All purpose gift cards – clients can spend on whatever they choose
- Clothing – new items only please
- Books – new and very gently used items only please
- Food gift baskets
- Self-care items – soaps, candles, lotions, bath salts, silk hair bonnets
Other ways to contribute:
- Donate your time – IRL or virtual volunteering pre event and during event
- Host a toy drive or fundraising campaign on our behalf with your community group
- Become our social media elves – share our info on your social media!
- Introduce us to media for interviews to boost our visibility in the community