Toys for local kids in need are being collected by the YMCA of Lincoln again this year for their annual “Giving Tree” campaign.
The Giving Tree is located in the lobbies of all four YMCA location in Lincoln: Northeast, Cooper, Copple Family, and Fallbrook. Each tree is decorated with ornaments which donors can simply pluck and purchase a gift for the selected age range and gender, $25 or under.
“We provide a gift to every single student in Elliott Elementary School and Pershing Elementary School. So that puts us at about 750 kids that we serve through this program,” said Luke Stege-Tompsett, Executive Director of the Northeast YMCA.
If donors are not able to physically visit a YMCA branch, they can call the location for information on online or alternate donation options. Unwrapped gifts and gift cards will also be accepted. Trees will remain up until Wednesday, December 4th.
Stege-Tompsett says this is one of his favorite events that the Y puts on each year.
“The joy on the kids’ faces is just incredible. Some of these students maybe don’t have a home life where they’re going to be able to get presents for Christmas… The teachers who know the students the best are able pick out the gifts for the students. They know what their interests are, so no matter the student, they’ll all get a gift that they’re interested in.,” Stege-Tompsett said.
If you need help with toy ideas, the Y has an Amazon Wish List with some examples gifts available. If donors would like to mail gifts directly to the YMCA of Lincoln, have them addressed to 570 Fallbrook Blvd, St. 210, Lincoln, NE 68521. In the “gift message” section of your online order, let them know the age/gender for the gift. (Example: “Preschool Girl”)
YMCA does not except any gifts that resemble any sort of weapon. (e.g. Nerf guns, toy knives, toy swords, etc.)
One middle school student has widened her impact with this event. Pixie is a middle school student, and with the help of her friends and family, has held “Cupcakes for a Cause” for several years now.
Last year, using proceeds from selling cupcakes, Pixie was able to donate almost 120 gifts to YMCA for the Giving Tree.