The community was especially generous during the holiday season’s Spread Joy Toy Drive sponsored by Navarro. More than 32,000 items were donated—nearly three times the number of toys donated the previous year—with a value of more than $800,000.

The 147 children admitted to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital on Christmas Day woke up to a bag full of individually wrapped toys selected for each child’s age and interests. The remaining toys have been stored and will be used to help celebrate every patient’s birthday throughout 2020.

This year, the “hot” items were 24-pack crayon packages, Hot Wheels car sets, Connect 4 games and Avengers puzzles.

One of the reasons for the large increase in donations may be that toy drive volunteers more than doubled this year, with 112 individuals hosting events, collecting toys, wrapping toys and staffing the drop-off locations.

Our patients need and depend on the generosity of others all year long, not just during the holiday season. Help spread joy throughout the year by joining Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Monthly Giving Circle. By investing in the health and happiness of children on a monthly basis, you can positively impact the lives of children and their families every day.

Make a monthly gift that will bring better health to our children and give you the deep satisfaction in knowing your gift is making the difference in the life of a child.