For the last nine years, one dedicated employee of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University has been organizing Santa’s Keepers Toy Drive for children in the Children’s Hospital at the University Hospital of Brooklyn. Jimmy Doyle makes the rounds each year collecting toys and donations that purchase toys for children who are hospitalized during the holidays.
Facing the pandemic this year has resulted in fewer donations, but no less engaged Downstate and other volunteers who also donate and help wrap presents. Each gift is specifically selected with the child in mind and in response to what the child has requested.
Most of the pediatric patients at the hospital have chronic illnesses and look forward to the joy of receiving these gifts, which are given directly to the children from their parents.
Generous supporters help Downstate provide approximately 250 gifts to these children each year, helping to bring a sense of cheer and community to everyone involved for the holiday season. Santa’s Keepers Toy Drive operates with support from Jared Carmel and the MVP Foundation.
