Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive Shatters Record, Collecting More Than 13,000 Gifts for Local Families
Orange County’s 15th Annual Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive reached new heights this year, collecting an unprecedented 13,076 toys for local children and families — the most in the event’s history. The outpouring of generosity from County employees, residents and community partners will brighten the holidays for hundreds of families across Orange County.
“This incredible milestone shows the heart of our community,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. “Every toy represents a child who will feel joy this holiday season because someone cared enough to give. I’m so proud of our employees and residents for coming together once again to make a real difference.”
A generous $20,000 donation from Sam’s Club helped boost this year’s record-breaking total, which surpassed last year’s collection of nearly 11,000 toys. Over the past 15 years, the Toy Drive has now gathered nearly 110,000 gifts for local youth — from infants to teens — served by Orange County’s Neighborhood Centers for Families and other local organizations.
Mayor Demings helped distribute toys on Thursday, December 18, to families that registered through the Neighborhood Centers for Families. Four families joined the Mayor to personally select toys, while additional families received their presents through a drive-through distribution.
“I’ve never experienced something like this before. I think it’s a blessing for the holiday,” said Brittney Weech, mom of two. “I’m very, very grateful. Prayers do come true when you do need that help before the holidays.”
Orange County departments once again led the way with friendly competition and remarkable contributions. This year’s top-performing departments and divisions included:
- Planning, Environmental and Development Services – 1,279 toys
- Orange County Utilities – 1,201 toys
- Orange County Library System – 893 toys
- Citizens’ Commission for Children – 762 toys
- Orange County Parks and Recreation – 742 toys
- Orange County Corrections – 701 toys
- Orange County Public Works – 543 toys
The Mayor praised the outstanding participation across departments: “Our employees consistently go above and beyond — not only in their daily service to residents, but also in their generosity during the holiday season.”
Launched in 2011, the Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive has grown into one of the region’s largest community giving efforts. Donations stay entirely within Orange County, ensuring that every gift benefits local families in need.
To learn more or support future drives, visit Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive.