The Island of Misfit Toys toy drive, a staple of the Vallejo community for over two decades, will hold its final event on December 10, 2023. Founded by Mario Saucedo, Executive Director of the Solano AIDS Coalition, and initiated in response to the holiday struggles of families impacted by HIV, this annual drive has provided joy to thousands of children.
The toy drive began in 2003 when Donna Finney, a bartender at Townhouse, approached Saucedo with the idea. In its inaugural year, the initiative distributed toys to 40 children. Since then, the drive has grown significantly, but recent challenges have led Saucedo to announce this year’s event will be the last on a major scale.
Saucedo cited an increase in the number of toy drives across the city and a decline in donations as key factors in his decision. “When we started this, there were probably only two other toy drives in the whole city,” he noted. “Now, they’re everywhere. Everyone is doing one.” Despite the competition, he expressed appreciation for the community’s efforts, stating, “I give a big thumbs up to those people.”
Each year, the toy drive typically distributed around 30 bags of toys, but this year, Saucedo has only six bags prepared for the event. The economic climate has also played a role, with recent tariffs causing prices of toys to rise.
Legacy of Giving and Community Support
The impact of the Island of Misfit Toys toy drive extends beyond individual families. Over the years, many local organizations, including the Vallejo and Benicia fire departments, the Better Here Group, and the Vallejo Holistic Health Center, have contributed significantly to the cause.
Saucedo paid tribute to Greg Shoepp, the former owner of the Vallejo Holistic Health Center, who was a dedicated supporter of the drive until his recent passing. “He was our angel,” Saucedo reflected. Shoepp’s annual contributions often reached nearly $20,000, providing children with gifts like iPods, computers, and other significant items.
As the final toy drive approaches, Saucedo is making a heartfelt appeal for last-minute donations to ensure that the needs of over 200 expected children are met. Donations can be delivered to the Immersive Learning Center located at 250 Georgia Street in downtown Vallejo.
“Donations have been sparse this year,” he admitted. “I fear there may not be enough for the children.” The community is encouraged to rally once more as the drive concludes its legacy.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Reflecting on the journey, Saucedo expressed pride in the initiative’s longevity and impact. “It’s been so beautiful and exciting having so many people volunteer and donate,” he said, though he acknowledged the emotional weight of this final event. “It’s really painful, and I have tears in my eyes because it’s sad. But it’s been a great ride, and I thank all the community members who have helped make this a success for over 20 years.”
The Island of Misfit Toys toy drive, once a small idea sparked by concern for struggling families, has left an indelible mark on the Vallejo community. As it prepares for its last event, the spirit of generosity and compassion it inspired will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the hearts of those it touched. The final gathering will take place from noon until 17:00 at 831 Marin Street, marking the end of an era filled with hope and giving.
