About the toy drive

Our initiative has a heartwarming history that dates back over 20 years ago when a group of friends and family gathered to collect toys for children in need during the holiday season. Since then, our community-driven project has grown significantly in size and scope.

We are proud to say that our Toy Drive has become one of the largest and most impactful charitable efforts in Montreal, thanks to the incredible support of our donors and volunteers. We are committed to continuing our mission to spread joy and kindness to those in need, and we welcome anyone who shares our passion for giving back to join us. 
Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless children and families in our community.

LAST YEAR IMPACT

Thanks for your continued support!

Thank you to all of our generous donors and dedicated volunteers

4,626

gifts for children

2,085

gifts for women

In total, we were able to provide gifts to 75 women’s shelters and smaller organizations in 2024.

See the 2024 recap video

How to participate

At Carolyn’s Community, we believe gift-giving is best when it’s personal. That’s why we love giving you the opportunity to choose the age and gender of the person you’re purchasing for.

If you are part of a school or company that is affiliated with Carolyn’s Community Toy Drive,
please reach out to your organizer for their list.

Gift-giving Guidelines:

  • Purchase a toy or gift card with a value of roughly $30. 
  • For those 12 years old & under we ask for a gift, while those over 12 receive gift cards.
  • For gifts, do NOT clothing, or anything weapon-like (i.e.: nerf guns, squirt guns, swords, etc.)
  • Once purchased, tag your gift with your name and the age & gender you’ve chosen.
  • To receive a drop-off location, please contact the person near your area. Contact details are provided in your email confirmation.

Don’t have the time to shop?

We know the holidays can be busy and hectic, if you’d like to participate but don’t have time to shop, we can purchase the gift on your behalf. You can make a general donation to the Toy Drive by clicking the link below.

Thank you for taking the time to brighten a child’s day during the holiday season!

SPONSOR and SHOP for a child

Still accepting monetary donations. Sign up sheets now closed!

Rather make a monetary donation for the toy drive? Let us purchase the gifts for you.

Click below.

Donate

Frequently asked question

What types of toys are not accepted?

Clothing, Chocolate, Candy and Weapon-like toys are not accepted. However if you are able to donate clothing, chocolate or candy in bulk, please contact us directly.

Do you accept second hand toys?

During November and December we do not accept second hand toys. However, from January to October, we can find a good home for these items. 

Where can I drop off my toy donation?

Your confirmation email outlines the person to contact when your gift is ready. We have drop off locations in Notre Dame de Grace (NDG), Rosemont, Pointe-Claire, and Kirkland. If needed, please  contact carolynstoydrive@gmail.com. 

Do you offer toy pick-ups from businesses or organizations?

We are always grateful when you can deliver directly to us, however we can direct a volunteer to pick up your contribution.

Who are the recipients of the toys?

We receive lists of children from Women’s shelters, organizations who help newcomers, youth in group homes, those who have recently moved out of group homes, and many underprivileged families. See link for complete list.

When is the Event running?

The Toy Drive usually runs from mid November to mid December, however some exceptions may apply.

Who already supports the Toy Drive?

Many individuals in and around Montreal. As well as our Community Leaders – Head Elves  and Head Elf Company Sponsors. Click here to see the list.

How can my business or organization become a collection point?

Contact us at carolynstoydrive@gmail.com to discuss this opportunity.

Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?

Currently, we only issue tax receipts for monetary donations of $25 and over. Please contact us for instructions for donations of this value. Thank you!

Our community leaders who make all the magic happen!

Our head elves

Our Head Elves take a long list of their own and manage it through their own networks.

  • Colleen Coolen
  • Marie-Eve Chenard
  • Sherri Prazoff
  • Veronica Buna
  • Sandra Bouchard
  • Tania Marinos & Mel DiRienzo
  • Jasmin Fischer & Israel Fortin
  • Lia Caltagirone
  • Elaine Nowlan
  • Alexandra Dziuba
  • Steph Woo
See more head elves

Our Company Sponsors

  • Plank 
  • WowWee 
  • Lancome Canada
  • Siemens Energy (Marie-Eve Chenard)
  • Maddy K 
  • Aldo Brand
  • Bentley 
  • Unity
  • Willingdon Elementary
  • CAE
  • CM Labs
  • The Study 
  • Telus Health  
  • Modo Yoga Montreal 
  • Modo Yoga – West Island
  • GL Creations 
  • Enphase Energy
  • Phidal 
  • IKEA 
  • Café Mercanti
  • Terrone Café
  • Pearls & Girls
  • Continental
  • Kidlink 
  • Lamour
  • BBHL Charity Event
  • DoGree
  • City Church
  • Morpho Bleu
  • Promark 
  • DanaWares 
  • Verdun Hospital 
  • Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital 
  • Bombardier
  • David’s Tea
  • Squish
  • Edinburgh Elementary
  • 4 Oceans International
  • HB Connections
  • The Priory 
  • Ashtanga Yoga Montreal
  • Grove Campus
  • Orange Theory – Somerled
  • Kiss Naturals 
  • Miss Edgar’s & Miss Cramp’s School
  • Kiehl Canada
  • Les Social Pups
  • Seniors in Action
  • Deville Technologies
  • Jackie J Fashion 
  • Future Simple Studio Inc
  • Trefoil Guild

Who we support

Women’s shelters and Organizations who help refugees, underprivileged families, youth in group homes and young adults who have outgrown gov’t care, single Moms in need, Native underprivileged families, young adults who are homeless, children of adults with drug addictions, the children of parents are undergoing opioid substitution treatment, teen young mothers and children of foster care young adults.

See the list of shelters & Organizations