The expERIEnce Children’s Museum is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Food and Toy Drive, taking place Monday, November 3rd through Monday, December 15th.
Amid a season when many families are feeling the strain of rising costs and difficult choices, the museum is calling on the community to come together in support of local children and families. Donations of non-perishable food items and new toys will benefit two local organizations dedicated to helping those in need, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania and Taradoodles Toy Box of Erie.
Second Harvest Food Bank provides essential food assistance to individuals and families across 11 counties in northwest Pennsylvania, while Taradoodles Toy Box of Erie distributes toys and small gifts to ensure every child experiences the joy of receiving something special.
“As families across our region face new challenges, it’s more important than ever to come together and lift one another up,” said Ainslie Brosig, Executive Director of the expERIEnce Children’s Museum. “At the Children’s Museum, we believe deeply in the power of play to bring hope, connection, and joy. This drive is an opportunity for our community to share that joy, whether through a warm meal or a moment of play.”
As a thank-you for community generosity, the museum will offer one complimentary admission pass for every five unopened toys or five non-perishable food items donated. Guests may choose to keep the pass or donate it back to support the partner organizations or other families visiting the museum.
Suggested food donations include canned soup, canned tuna, peanut butter, jelly, canned pasta or ready-to-eat meals, cereal, oatmeal, and rice. Suggested toy donations include art supplies, rubber ducks, action figures and character toys like Spider-Man and Sonic the Hedgehog, and other small items suitable for stocking stuffers.
Donations can be dropped off at the front desk of the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, located at 420 French Street, Erie, PA 16507, during regular museum hours, available at www.eriechildrensmuseum.org. Tuesday drop-offs may be coordinated with Olivia Wickline at olivia@eriechildrensmuseum.org.
