Support America’s Under-Resourced Classrooms with a Donation to the Toy Chest

August 4, 2025 | As students across the country gear up for a new academic year, The Toy Foundation™ (TTF) is accepting product donations to the Toy Chest for the 2025 back-to-school season. Every toy — whether it’s a plush, puzzle, building set, or sensory item — helps build a more inclusive learning environment in high-poverty areas where schools often lack basic resources, staffing, and funding.

To submit a product donation, fill out a Toy Chest donation form and email it to [email protected]. Monetary donations are also accepted.

In partnership with World Vision, TTF will distribute product through a network of Teacher Resource Centers (TRCs) that serve Title I schools, where at least 70 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. These centers provide educators the opportunity to “shop” at no cost for classroom materials, including toys that support learning and student well-being.

“Toys and play help students focus, build confidence, and manage stress,” said Pamela Mastrota, executive director of The Toy Foundation. “With support from the industry, we’re helping teachers create classrooms that incorporate play-based learning in a fun, meaningful, and accessible way for children.”

Thanks to previous industry donations, toys have been used to support learning, creativity, and emotional well-being in classrooms. World Vision shared powerful examples of how toys have made a difference in classrooms across the country:

• Motivational Tools: Educators use puzzles, books, and games as incentives for participation and good behavior. One teacher shared how she turns toy donations into prizes that inspire students to stay on task and reach academic goals.
• Creating Positive Learning Experiences: Educators report that allowing children to hold plush toys during reading time creates a cozy, comforting experience, helping to reduce anxiety and form joyful associations with learning.
• Supporting Special Education: Toys like pop-its serve as valuable tools in special education classrooms, helping students manage sensory needs and stay engaged with lesson plans.
• Encouraging STEM Exploration: Donations of building toys offer hands-on learning that promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork — key elements of a strong STEM foundation.

Donations of new toys in any quantity are always accepted. Click here to fill out a product donation form.

Since 2003, the Toy Chest has comforted more than 35 million children with the power of play. To learn more about The Toy Foundation, visit toyfoundation.org.