Harlem native's annual toy drive brings joy to hundreds of families in need

HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX 11) — Christmas in Harlem was full of joy and generosity as a Harlem native returned for her 17th annual toy drive, bringing the magic of the season to hundreds of families in need.

The spirit of giving was alive at the event as hundreds of families lined the block around P.S. 197. This cherished tradition has become a source of joy and hope, brightening the holiday season for those who need it most.

“It means a lot,” said Veronica, a parent who attended the event. “It’s helpful. We’re grateful, extremely grateful and any help that we can get, we take.”

Inside the school's gymnasium, thousands of toys and clothing filled the space, turning it into a winter wonderland for needy children.

“I slept outside to be here today, in my car with my babies,” said Theresa White, a parent who came from the Bronx to attend the toy drive. 

White said the event helps ease the burden on parents during the holidays while bringing her children a little extra joy.

“I’m a single mother because my kids' father was murdered in 2019, so I’ve been trying to get little things by little, but this right here makes a big difference. My baby got an iPad.”

Harlem native Michelle Smalls has been organizing the toy drive for 17 years, along with the help of her friends, after recognizing the need in her community. 

“It was a little boy, and he was going past my salon, and I screamed at him. I was like ‘go put your coat on. He was like, ‘I don’t have one,’ and when he said I don’t have one, I asked all my friends to donate a coat,” she recalled.

The holiday magic came to life as children posed for pics with Santa Claus and handpicked the biggest, most exciting gifts. Six-year-old Arielle Hower could hardly contain her excitement about her new toy Barbie car. 

“I got a full-sized Barbie car, and I feel excited to be here because all my friends and family are happy to be here, too,” she said. For Smalls, the event was more than just a toy giveaway but a chance to create memories for families that will last long after the holidays.