Staff at the Coalition for the Homeless headquarters in Lower Manhattan are busily sorting through dozens of donated toys as part of their annual holiday toy drive this time of year.

The initiative aims to collect and distribute 10,000 toys to children living in city shelters before Christmas.

What You Need To Know

  • The Coalition for the Homeless is conducting its annual toy drive for children in shelters

  • The organization hopes to collect 10,000 toys this holiday season

  • Nearly 46,000 children currently live in city shelters

“Basically, what we are doing now is opening these Amazon boxes that generous donors have purchased toys and meet our goal of 10,000 toys,” said Elizabeth Morales, the coalition’s manager for emergency goods distribution.

Morales has been involved in the effort for 13 years.

“I love Christmas, I love giving back, especially to the children,” she said.

The toy drive is supported through an Amazon wish list, allowing donors to select gifts for children and teens. While items for younger children are common, Morales emphasized the importance of remembering older kids with gifts like electronics, perfume sets or gift cards.

“Us making that happen and with your donations is just greatly appreciated, and will just make a smile on these kids’ faces,” Morales said.

Homelessness in New York City has reached its highest levels since the Great Depression, with one in eight public school students in the five boroughs experiencing homelessness.

To contribute to the toy drive, visit Coalition for the Homeless' website.