Catholic Charities’ free ‘toy shop’ helps families celebrate Christmas

SUNSET PARK — CATHOLIC CHARITIES BROOKLYN AND QUEENS HAS TEAMED UP WITH THE BASILICA OF OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP to host a free “toy shop” for families who are struggling financially this Christmas season. The Diocese of Brooklyn’s Tablet newspaper reported that about 600 people visited the toy shop on the first of four days it is being offered, with pre-registration required. This program is set up differently than many holiday giveaways, CCBQ’s senior director of community outreach services Debbie Hampson, told The Tablet. The Basilica’s shop, offering a range of toys, dolls, books, puzzles and other treats, was arranged like a toy store, allowing parents the dignity of selecting their children’s own age-appropriate gifts rather than having items handed to them.

CCBQ scheduled a total of four “toy shops” — two in Brooklyn and two in Queens — on Dec. 10, 11, 18 and 19, which are expected to help more than 3,000 children have a blessed Christmas. Families can find more details about the toy distributions and make appointments by visiting the website.

Toy donors are also still welcome to contribute, by visiting Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens on social media for information on how to donate and help spread holiday cheer to more families.

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