The Pagosa Community Initiative (PCI) is inviting every neighbor, business and classroom to rally behind the Chrystal Snow Memorial Holiday Toy Drive, a community-wide effort to ensure every child experiences a joyful holiday season.
Why this matters now
As the holidays approach, local families face extra hurdles in gift-giving.
The toy drive is designed to lift that burden by providing new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages, with special attention to teens, who are often left out of similar drives.
The program partners with schools and community groups to reach those most in need, turning generosity into real smiles.
What to expect this season
• The mission: Collect and distribute new toys to Archuleta County kids in need.
• When and where: Ongoing throughout the holiday season with multiple drop-off points at familiar local spots, plus a prominent collection outside Walmart from Nov. 29 to Dec. 11.
• How to participate: Donate toys, volunteer your time, join in-store drives with local partners or sponsor the effort.
Where to drop off
You can drop off at a growing list of trusted locations, including Ace Hardware, Rosie’s Pizza, Walmart, Wyndham, Kip’s, Riff Raff, Pagosa Springs Barbershop, the Community United Methodist Church, Bank of the San Juans, Bliss Scoops and Sweets, Uncles, FroYo, and Pagosa Baking Company. Boxes are ready and waiting for generosity.
Supporting families in need
If your family could use a boost this season, PCI is ready to help. Reach out at (970) 585-6253 or visit the PCI website for more information for help.
Volunteers can also sign up at www.pagosacommunityinitiative.org by selecting “volunteer” to help us man the Walmart collections.
A ripple of impact
Last year’s toy drive touched the lives of more than 200 children and families, affirming that small acts of giving can create big moments of joy. This year, organizers aim to expand reach and ensure every age group, including teens, benefits from the season of giving.
How you can get involved today
• Donate: New, unwrapped toys suitable for children of all ages.
• Volunteer: Help with collecting, sorting and distributing toys to families.
• Spread the word: Tell friends, co-workers, schools and faith communities about the drive.
• Sponsor: Local businesses can provide financial support or assist with events and logistics.
Important details
An additional drop-off is at the PCI Center, 550 B Hot Springs Blvd., open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (970) 585-6253 or visit the PCI website.
Join the Chrystal Snow Memorial Toy Drive and turn this season into a movement of care. Your toy, your time or your shout-out can light up a child’s holiday and strengthen the fabric of our community.
>