The New Life Union Mission Christmas Toy Store operates for three days in December to help parents provide toys for their children during Christmas.
The Toy Store is based on the simple belief that families would prefer to help provide for their children at Christmas rather than receive a handout.
"The Toy Store is truly a blessing! The Mission means the world to me. It makes me happy to see my kids happy." - Parent
When it Begins
October and November are busy months as parents and volunteers begin the sign-up process, volunteers start shopping for toys to stock in the store, and donations start coming in!
Each year we have monetary donations given by groups and individuals in Dyer County and Lauderdale County. Approximately 20 volunteers from the Dyersburg Noon Rotary Club volunteer to help transform the gym into a dazzling Toy Store, complete with a beautifully decorated 10-foot tall tree, wreaths, and creatively displayed tables. Upon arrival, parents are treated to the sights, smells, and sounds of Christmas while they shop for their children.
Volunteers from First Baptist Church Dyersburg and our community wrap over 600 gifts over the course of three days. Thanks to the generous donations and our volunteers, we are able to provide Christmas gifts, personal hygiene items, stocking stuffers, mittens, and hats to over 200 children.
The parents and volunteers who have participated in past years were overwhelmed with gratitude.
"I so enjoyed volunteering at the Toy Store. It was neat to be able to visit with the shoppers and they were so thankful. This was such a fun part of my Christmas." - Volunteer
