Where to donate holiday gifts in San Diego

Help local families have happy holidays by contributing to one of these seven nonprofits.

Toys for tots drive San Diego

‘Tis the season to be generous.

Photo via San Diego County

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The holidays are a season of giving, and your generosity could really help some San Diegans. Many local nonprofits are spreading holiday cheer, and we’ve made a nice list of six organizations still accepting support.

Toys for Tots

San Diego County and the US Marine Corps are hosting their annual toy drives, with drop-off locations at airports in El Cajon, Fallbrook, Ramona, Carlsbad, and Borrego Springs through Friday, Dec. 8, or Saturday, Dec. 9.

Pro tip: Toys for Tots has many other drop-off sites, too, including San Diego Fire-Rescue Department locations. Find one near you.

Shoe & Sock Drive

The Chula Vista Police Foundation is kicking into the holiday spirit with this annual drive on Saturday, Dec. 9. Donations will be used to provide students at Chula Vista Elementary School with footwear.

Heart to Hands

This annual food drive collects nonperishable items and hygiene products to support local pantries, as well as pet supplies for the San Diego Humane Society. There are various drop-off locations in Pacific Beach and La Jolla accepting donations through Sunday, Dec. 10.

San Diego Gulls Players with their new teddy bears

Fans did a beary good job supporting the 2022 Teddy Bear Toss.

Photo via @sdgullsahl

Teddy Bear Toss

Toss a plush toy on the ice at the San Diego Gulls’ home game against the Henderson Silver Knights on Saturday, Dec. 16. Donations from the annual event will be distributed to multiple local charities.

Little Italy Toy Drive

The Little Italy Association hosts this annual drive to support children in foster care through New Alternatives, Inc. Drop-off boxes can be found at local businesses and the Little Italy Mercato through Monday, Dec. 18.

Comfort & Joy 2023

Join Hope for San Diego’s effort to spread holiday cheer by getting paired with a family in need and helping them fill their Christmas wish list through Monday, Dec. 18.