The Orange County Department of Social Services (DSS) is calling on residents, businesses, schools, faith communities and civic groups to help brighten the holidays for local children through The Toy Chest, the County’s annual toy distribution program for eligible families.
As the number of children in need grows each year, DSS is hosting a family-friendly donation event: Take a Picture with St. Nick. Community members who bring a new, unwrapped toy in original packaging or donate to The Toy Chest will receive a free photo with Santa.
Event Details
- What: Take a Picture with St. Nick — Toy donation and free Santa photos
- When: Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Where: Walmart, 501 Hampton Pointe B, Hillsborough, NC
- Learn more / donate online: orangecountync.gov/654/Donate-Toys
“The success of these programs is made possible, in large part, to the local donations and community volunteers,” said Sharron Hinton, Human Services Manager at Orange County DSS.
Why it matters
The Toy Chest provides holiday gifts, books, clothing and food supports for children ages 12 and under from low-income families in Orange County (household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines). In 2024, Toy Chest served 1003 families and 1852 children.
The sponsorship program pairs donors with families being served by DSS, including foster children, vulnerable adults, seniors, and young parents.
How to help
Bring a toy or gift card by Dec. 9, 2025:
- Collect or purchase new, unopened toys or gift cards (see Gift Ideas PDF on the Toy Chest page).
- Drop off at either Orange County DSS office during business hours by Dec. 9. Hillsborough Commons is located at 113 Mayo Street, Hillsborough. Southern Human Services is located at 2501 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill. Please hand gift cards directly to staff, or use listed Toys for Tots drop-off locations.
- Leave your name and address if you’d like a receipt. All donations are tax-deductible.
Host a toy drive:
Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, classrooms, Sunday Schools, neighborhood groups and businesses are encouraged to organize toy drives, set up collection boxes, or host “bring-a-gift” parties—great for team morale and community impact.
Give online or by mail (tax-deductible):
- Online: hillsborough-nc.toysfortots.org
- By mail:
Orange County Department of Social Services
PO Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Please designate “Toy Chest” in the memo.
Who qualifies
The Toy Chest serves low-income families not in the Sponsorship Program with children ages 0–12 residing in Orange County. Food supports (including gift cards and “Food Lion Feeds” boxes) help families with school-aged children who rely on free/reduced-price school meals during the year.
Media & Program Contacts
- Media inquiries: Wil Glenn, Orange County Community Relations Director wglenn@orangecountync.gov or 919-245-2302
- Sponsor a family or individual: Serena McPherson
smcpherson@orangecountync.gov, 919-245-2871 - Toy Chest / volunteers / donations: Holidayprogram@orangecountync.gov, 919-245-2931
About Orange County DSS
The Orange County Department of Social Services partners with residents and community organizations to promote well-being and economic security through essential services, resources and supports for individuals and families across the county.