For more than four decades, the Atlantic County Toys for Kids Program has delivered holiday cheer to families facing financial hardship. Founded by a sergeant who wanted to support injured officers and their families during the holiday season, the effort has since grown into a countywide initiative that relies on local businesses, volunteers and first responders to make sure no child goes without a gift.
While the year-end holidays are often viewed as a time of celebration, they can be stressful for families experiencing difficult circumstances. The c community continues to rally together, easing that burden through tremendous generosity and teamwork.
I recently spoke with Michelle Riordan, a 30-year volunteer and one of the many dedicated people who help run the program. Riordan wears many hats — from coordinating events to picking up toy deliveries—and says the operation depends heavily on a core group of volunteers and first responders. These partners help organize toys by age group, transport donations and even escort Santa on his holiday visits. Though the timeline is tight and the logistics demanding, Riordan says the team works tirelessly to ensure everything comes together once the holidays arrive.
A visit from Santa is one of the program’s most beloved traditions. With support from the community, Santa and his helpers travel throughout Atlantic County delivering toys, visiting hospitals, nursing homes and the homes of families in need. Riordan said watching children’s eyes light up as they meet Santa is one of the most rewarding parts of her work. Local first responders also help identify families who may benefit from a visit, ensuring both their holiday spirits and safety needs are met.
One highlight each year is Santa’s stop at Shore Medical Center in Somers Point, where he, Frosty the Snowman and a team of elves deliver gifts to pediatric patients. Illness doesn’t pause for the holidays, Riordan noted, and sometimes the best medicine is joy.
In addition to its Christmas efforts, the Atlantic County Toys for Kids Program stays active year-round. The group partners with municipalities on community events including trunk-or-treat celebrations, Christmas in July block parties and summer outings that give children the chance to enjoy the Jersey Shore and explore local wildlife from Atlantic City cruises.
This year, Santa’s annual toy run is scheduled for Dec. 21, 2025. Police departments throughout Atlantic County escort Santa and his merry elves on their annual toy run to bring holiday cheer. Last season, more than 14,000 toys were collected and distributed, and organizers hope to surpass that number this year.
As the season approaches, residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for toy drive drop-off locations posted on the ACTFK website. Donating a new unwrapped toy is a simple way to brighten a child’s holiday. The website also provides updates on upcoming events, including the group’s annual beef and beer fundraiser on Dec. 19. Families in need may fill out a Toy request form on website
No matter the size, every donation makes a difference—and every gift brings a smile to someone in our community this holiday season.
