Posted on January 3, 2025 by G. Worth As we begin 2025, we are thrilled to share some heartwarming news that perfectly captured the spirit of giving during the recent holiday season. The Coalition’s 2024 Holiday Toy Drive not only met, but dramatically exceeded, our goal, as we collected nearly 14,000 toys for children living in New York City shelters – far surpassing our target of 10,000 toys! Two children stand beside each other, enjoying the holiday carnival. For the Coalition, this means a lot. There are currently nearly 46,000 children living in New York City shelters; sadly, a record-breaking number in itself. For these children, these gifts represent a moment of happiness, and a reminder that the people of our city care deeply about them and their families. The season’s festivities kicked off with our beloved annual Kids Holiday Carnival at the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) building in Lower Manhattan. Close to 100 children from shelters across the city joined us for a day of pure magic and celebration. The space came alive with the sounds of music from our DJ, as kids danced exuberantly and then gasped with amazement during the magic show. They also enjoyed having their faces painted, feasted on a delicious lunch, and – of course – received a special visit from Santa himself. A huge thanks to our good friends at UFT for again hosting and supporting the party! Two kids dancing together at the holiday carnival. A young child high-fives an activities coordinator. Audience members in awe during the magic show. We’re also very grateful to Spectrum News and Roger Clark for their continued support, marking their 10th year of covering our toy drive, which has proven instrumental in rallying community support and spreading awareness of our mission. The remarkable success of this year’s drive would not have been possible without the generous support of our corporate partners including Antin Infrastructure Partners, AMC, Blackstone, the Browning School, Carnegie Corporation, Eklund Gomes Team of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, Pinterest, Siguler Guff & Company, The Rockefeller University, VIDA Shoes International, along with countless individual donors who opened their hearts to make the season brighter for children in need. As we reflect on this achievement, we’re reminded that even in challenging times, the spirit of giving remains strong in New York City. Looking ahead to 2025, this overwhelming response inspires us to continue working hard, supporting the children and families in our community experiencing homelessness. From everyone at the Coalition for the Homeless, thank you for making the 2024 holiday season truly exceptional for thousands of New York City children. Two children stand under a tree with their gifts. Three children stand under a tree with their gifts. Four children stand under a tree with their gifts.
