Kimberly Elementary School’s 5th Annual Toy Drive Brings Holiday Joy to Students

Kimberly Elementary School’s 5th annual Toy Drive. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©

Kimberly Elementary School, in partnership with BLACT ATL, Inc., hosted its 5th annual Toy Drive on December 19. Over 300 students selected two gifts, including toys, books, instruments, and STEM-focused items, and participated in ornament-making, games, and coloring. A reindeer scratch-off game awarded winners bicycles, scooters, and skateboards.

“This event is very important for some of the students that we serve because, depending on what is going on, this might be the only opportunity to receive presents for some of our kids,” Kimberly Elementary School interim principal Kristy Reese said.

The toy drive began as a drive-thru event during the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago. Since then, it has become an interactive program with crafts, performances, and community engagement.

BLACT ATL’s mission combines arts, advocacy, and service. Originally formed to address equity issues in Georgia’s theater industry, the organization has expanded its efforts to support community programs.

“We invite our volunteers to roll up their sleeves, get in the mix, get with the kids, and see them running around. They fall in love with it, and they look forward to it every year,” BLACT ATL, Inc. co-founder Tina Fears said.

Kimberly Elementary School students receiving stuffed gnome ornaments from the Black Paper Company. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©

Aurora Theatre, based in Lawrenceville, Georgia, was also a key partner and contributor to the event. Additional support came from Walmart, Target, Rap Snacks, local businesses, and individuals who gave toys and monetary donations. The Black Paper Company provided stuffed gnome ornaments, and BLACT ATL, Inc. distributed snacks and hygiene kits for older students.

“We’ve grown to where we are now by enhancing the students’ experience and making it more interactive,” Fears said. “We have some great sponsors who allow us to do this.”

The toy drive provided students with an opportunity to receive gifts and witness service in action firsthand. As they matriculate through Kimberly Elementary, it will become a treat they look forward to every year. And so will BLACT ATL, Inc.

“I couldn’t imagine us not doing it,” Fears said. “We absolutely want to come back every year.

View the photo recap of the Kimberly Elementary School 5th annual Toy Drive. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©