Coral Springs Police Department launches annual holiday toy drive to help families struggling with rising toy prices this season
Coral Springs, Florida – With the holiday season approaching and prices on toys climbing higher than ever, the Coral Springs Police Department is calling on the community to help ensure children in need can still enjoy the season. The department’s annual Holiday Toy Drive will run from November 17 through December 15, offering residents a chance to give back during a time when families are feeling unprecedented financial pressure.
Donors can drop off new, unwrapped toys at the Police Department lobby, City Hall, or Wings Plus on Sample Road. All donations will go directly to local children in need, ensuring that the holiday season remains joyful for those who might otherwise go without. While the drive welcomes a wide range of toys, organizers note that stuffed animals, used toys, and toy guns are not accepted.
“This is our way of making sure that every child in Coral Springs has a gift to open this holiday season,” said a spokesperson for the Coral Springs Police Department. “We hope our community will step up to help families who are struggling with rising costs and make this season a little brighter for all.”
Families across the country are feeling the squeeze, with toy, game, and playground equipment prices increasing a record 2.2 percent between April and May this year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That jump far outpaces the 0.1 percent inflation rate for all items during the same period, highlighting the disproportionate impact rising toy prices are having on households trying to stretch their budgets.
Experts say the surge in costs is tied to a combination of factors. More than 75 percent of toys sold in the United States are imported from China, leaving the industry especially sensitive to tariffs, which have climbed as high as 30 percent this year. Additionally, toy makers have increased retail prices by up to 36 percent to offset higher import and production costs, placing further strain on parents already struggling to manage everyday expenses.
By hosting the toy drive, the Coral Springs Police Department hopes to ease some of that burden, making it possible for more children to experience the joy of the season despite economic challenges. In addition to providing gifts, the program also emphasizes community involvement, encouraging residents to come together to support local families and demonstrate compassion during the holidays.
Community members interested in donating are encouraged to bring new toys to one of the drop-off locations throughout the drive’s duration. Organizers stress that every contribution — whether small or large — can make a meaningful difference in the life of a child.
With prices on the rise and economic uncertainty affecting many families, initiatives like the Coral Springs Holiday Toy Drive serve as a reminder that community support can help lighten the load and bring joy to children who might otherwise miss out. The police department’s effort represents more than gift-giving; it is a commitment to uplifting the entire community and fostering a sense of shared care and generosity.
For more information on the drive or to find alternative ways to help, residents can contact the Coral Springs Police Department or visit their official website.
