Holiday Toy Donation Guidelines
The joy of the season comes from giving! While you don’t have to purchase toys directly from our wish lists, we kindly ask that all donations be new and unwrapped so every child can feel the magic of receiving a special gift.
Toy Drop-Off & Online Ordering
Spreading cheer is easy! You can visit either our Amazon or Target wish list directly, which has the option to have items shipped directly to our shelter. Or, if you’re shopping online and would like gifts delivered straight to Van Buren, please use the following shipping information:
YMCA Van Buren Center
ATTN: Santa's Workshop
595 Van Buren Drive
Columbus, OH
To keep the holidays bright and safe, we’re unable to accept toy weapons (such as guns, knives, or swords) or items that are overly violent.
All donation drop-offs must be coordinated directly with the Volunteer Coordinator, Katrina Martin-Healey.
Email: [email protected] to coordinate your drop-off.
Holiday Giving for Adults in Shelter
This season, let’s make the holidays brighter for everyone at Van Buren—including the 200+ women and 100 men in our Single Adult Shelter.
We need gift cards, nail files, lotion, hot cocoa packets, wool socks, and perfume.
Your generosity will help ensure that every guest feels remembered this holiday season.
To learn more about how to help with our Adult Holiday Gift, please get in touch with us at [email protected].
Additional Ways to Help Van Buren this Holiday...
Winter Items
Collect new or gently used winter coats.
URGENT NEED:
-Adult coats (sizes L-4XL)
-Baby/toddler coats
-Kids hats and gloves
-Shoes (adult & youth)
-Blankets
Hygiene Items
Donate essential items needed year round.
URGENT NEED:
-Baby diapers (size 4,5,6)
-Baby wipes
-Bar soap
-Deodorant
-Travel size shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
Meals & Food
Provide a meal for our guests at Van Buren or non-perishable snacks for children, diabetic, and pregnancy snack.
SUGGESTED:
-Oatmeal packets -Cereal cups,
-Granola bars
-Ramen Noodles
Together, we can make this holiday season truly magical for children and families in need.
For many of the families and single adults at Van Buren, the holidays can be a difficult time. But with your kindness, we can transform this season into one filled with joy, hope, and warmth.
Every act of generosity—whether it’s donating a toy for a child, providing a simple comfort item for an adult guest, or volunteering your time at Santa’s Workshop—creates moments of love and belonging that will be remembered long after the decorations come down.
When we come together as a community, we remind each person that they are seen, valued, and not alone. Your support has the power to bring smiles on Christmas morning, comfort during the cold winter months, and the reassurance that brighter days are ahead.
Join us today and be part of spreading holiday cheer—because together, we can make the season unforgettable.