Case Study: Toys Of Hope

There are many needy children and families on Long Island. Too often parents cannot provide for their children the way they wish they could. Toys of hope is an organization that aims to help those families in need. The guiding principal behind their mission is that “all children, regardless of financial status, race, religion or nationality, are deserving of those things which can help give them a happier and more fulfilling life. A new toy can mean everything to a needy or homeless child. It provides fun and enjoyment and gives a child a sense of pride in having something of their very own.”

Toys of Hope is a nonprofit organization based in Huntington, NY. The organization was founded in 1994 by Melissa Doktofsky. Toys of hope operates
Toys of hope has been recognized by state and local governments, boards of education and the Governor of New York State, for their volunteer work and commitment to helping children and families in local communities throughout Long Island. The founder, Melissa Doktofsky, received the prestigious Martin Luther King “Living the Dream” award. The award is intended to recognize those whose work embodies Dr. King’s message of justice for all and commitment to community.

Known for "More Than Toys”, Toys of Hope offers nine programs to families in need throughout Long Island. The first program is called Adopt a Family, where you can sponsor a family in two ways. You can make a donation of $100 to $2500, depending on family size. Toys of Hope can also provide a list of items specifically requested by the family. You can purchase the items and they will then be delivered by Toys of Hope. The identity of the family is kept confidential, but some may provide a photo if they wish. The second program is Children for Change. This program helps children learn the value of helping those in need. Kids are asked to collect change, whether it be from their piggy bank or left over lunch money, and use it for donation. Toys of Hope has brought this
To date, this program has earned $7,876. The third program, Tzedakah program, is similar to Children for Change, but for the whole family. A Tzedakah box is a Jewish charity box. You place the box in your home and children can put their allowance or change inside. Parents usually match the donation amount. Toys of Hope hosts workshops for the whole family where you can create your own Tzedaka box to bring home. An $18 donation to this program provides one person with a month’s supply of shampoo, soap, hygiene items and a toothbrush. The fourth program is the Out for a Day program, which provides a day of fun for children and their families. Parents who are struggling to pay their monthly bills cannot afford the costs associated with going to places like the zoo, or a baseball game. Toys of Hope pays for admission tickets, snacks and even souvenirs. Places families have been treated to include: baseball games at Citi Field and Yankee Stadium, the Bronx Zoo, the Long Island Game Farm, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, arcades, aquariums and local museums. Families as small as three people, to groups of up to fifty children and adults