Receiving gifts during the holidays is fun, but there's no better feeling than giving back by donating to a charitable cause. There are many ways to help those in need in Rockland County and Bergen County this season. Toy drives, coat drives, soup kitchens and even home crafting are just a few ways you give back and support communities. So add donating time, gifts, or money to those less fortunate to your list of holiday activities this year — after buying a Christmas tree, lighting a menorah, holiday shopping, seeing the Nutcracker or meeting Santa. Browse our guide below to find opportunities for kids, families and individuals to help make a difference this holiday season .
Toy Drives and Charity Opportunities in Rockland County
PBA Toy Drive
26 Orangeburg Rd.
845-535-1571
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New unwrapped toys for children can be dropped off at participating businesses or your local police department through Dec. 16. Benefits Tomorrow’s Children Hospital, Sanzari Children’s Hospital, Valley Hospital Pediatric Center, 508th Military Police, U.S Military families and others.
Rotary Club of Pearl River Holiday Toy Drive
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Drop off new, unwrapped gifts to be distributed to kids up age 18 through Rockland County’s Department of Social Services at the following locations through Dec. 18:
Coyle Wealth Management, 4 Franklin Ave.
Frank Perri: Allstate Insurance, 100 N Middletown Rd.
Schweizer & Dykstra Beautiful Flowers, 165 N Middletown Rd.
The Griffith Agency, 59 E Central Ave.
Community Action Program of Rockland County
17 West Broad St., West Haverstraw
845-728-0688 x201
94 N. Main St., Spring Valley
845-262-1987
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This Rockland County charity works to mobilize and manage resources through partnerships and collaborations that will help low-income and at-risk populations in Rockland County achieve greater self sufficiency. Services offered include employment services, benefit coordination and advocacy, back-to-school supplies, education referrals and more. The organization periodically lists available volunteer opportunities online. Learn more on the website.
Rockland Jewish Family Services Hanukkah Toy Drive
450 West Nyack Rd.
845-354-2121
Facebook
Drop off any new unwrapped toy or a gift card through Nov. 24, Monday-Thursday, 11am-4pm and Friday, 11am-3pm. There is a donation bin in the outer vestibule. You can also have a toy shipped to the site or send a gift card.
Rockland Meals on Wheels
121 West Nyack Rd.
845-624-6325
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This chapter of Meals on Wheels in Rockland County delivers food to residents in need who aren't able to shop or prepare meals for themselves. Volunteers not only deliver meals, but provide friendly conversation that helps reduce loneliness and isolation. Learn more on the website.
Toys for Tots Rockland County
845-406-2465
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Run by the U.S. Marine Corps, Toys for Tots collects and distributes toys to children in need during the holidays so they can experience the joys of the season. Go to toysfortots.org/donate to find local campaigns or make a monetary donation.
Toy Drives and Charities in Bergen County
Family Promise
100 Dayton St.
Ridgewood, NJ
201-833-8009
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This Bergen County charity helps homeless working families become self sufficient. The organization is dedicated to providing shelter and support to these families and creating programs to help them reach independence. Learn how you can support the organization on the website.
Meals on Wheels North Jersey
100 Madison Ave., Westwood
201-358-0050
Facebook
This chapter of Meals on Wheels in New Jersey delivers food to residents in need who aren't able to shop or prepare meals for themselves. Volunteers not only deliver meals, but provide friendly conversation that helps reduce loneliness and isolation. Learn more on the website.
Toy Drives and Charities in Fairfield County
Oliver’s Pajama Project at the Beardsley Zoo
1875 Noble Ave.
203-394-6565
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Drop off brand new pajamas for Oliver’s Pajama Project, a local initiative to ensure everyone has new and warm pajamas. All sizes are needed. Drop off items at the zoo’s front gate through Dec. 30.
