The Island of Misfit Toys toy drive, a cherished annual event in Vallejo, will hold its final gathering on December 10, 2023. Established by Mario Saucedo, Executive Director of the Solano AIDS Coalition, the drive has provided holiday cheer to families in need for two decades. The initiative began in 2003 when bartender Donna Finney approached Saucedo with the idea of collecting toys to help families struggling during the holiday season.
In its inaugural year, the drive successfully distributed toys to 40 children, a modest beginning that has grown significantly over the years. Saucedo, reflecting on the event’s evolution, stated, “Donna was really depressed and concerned that many families impacted by HIV weren’t getting the presents and food they needed to enjoy the holiday.” His commitment to the cause has resulted in thousands of toys being delivered to children throughout Vallejo.
Despite the drive’s success, Saucedo announced this year would mark its conclusion, citing several challenges including an increase in competing toy drives, economic factors, and a notable decrease in donations. This year, the toy drive has only gathered six bags of toys, a stark contrast to the usual 30 bags expected. “When we started this, there were probably only two other toy drives in the whole city,” he noted. “Now, they’re everywhere. It’s good that so many people are helping out, but it is affecting how much we can give out.”
The final event aims to support over 200 children, but with limited donations, Saucedo is urging the community for last-minute contributions. Donations can be delivered to the Immersive Learning Center located at 250 Georgia Street in downtown Vallejo. “I take a lot of pride in a toy drive that stayed strong for the majority of the two-plus decades,” Saucedo said in a recent interview.
Over the years, the toy drive has received significant support from local organizations, including the Vallejo and Benicia fire departments, the Better Here Group, and the Vallejo Holistic Health Center. Saucedo expressed particular gratitude towards Greg Shoepp, the former owner of Vallejo Holistic Health Center, who recently passed away. Shoepp was known for his generous contributions, including approximately $20,000 worth of toys annually, which often included high-value items such as iPods and computers. “He was our angel,” Saucedo remarked.
The impact of tariffs on imported goods has also compounded the challenges faced this year, raising the prices of toys and further straining resources. Despite the difficulties, Saucedo remains proud of the legacy built over the years. “It’s been so beautiful and exciting having so many people volunteer and donate,” he stated. “But it’s also a little heartbreaking having this one be the last. I attached my heart and soul to this. It’s really painful, and I have tears in my eyes because it’s sad.”
The Island of Misfit Toys toy drive has been a beacon of hope for many families in Vallejo, proving that even in the face of adversity, community support can create lasting joy. The final toy drive will take place from noon until 17:00 at 831 Marin Street, marking the end of an era that has brought smiles to countless children during the holiday season.
