Stuffed animals occupy a special place in children's toy collections as they grow up. However, as kids' preferences evolve, they often outgrow these plush companions quickly. Rather than discarding these items, donating stuffed animals allows other needy children to benefit from them while supporting meaningful causes that bring joy to many children.
If you're wondering where to donate stuffed animals or how to donate old stuffed animals, here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an impact.
Shop The Plush Toys Collection Now
5 Best Places to Donate Stuffed Animals
1. Donation Town
Whether you plan on donating lightly used stuffed toy animals, children's clothes, or furniture, Donation Town connects you with local charities and organizations nationwide that can pick up your donations from your home.
The organization accepts gently used toys, clothing, and new toys. It supports nonprofit organizations like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and Habitat for Humanity. Visit their website to schedule a convenient pickup time for your stuffed animal donations.
2. Stuffed Animals For Emergencies (SAFE)
SAFE accepts new and lightly used stuffies that follow strict cleaning guidelines. These plush toys provide comfort to children entering foster care or those who have experienced traumatic events such as natural disasters, house fires, or medical emergencies.
In 2025, SAFE will expand its reach to over 35 states and partner with organizations in your area to distribute approximately 250,000 stuffed animals to children in crisis. You can drop off clean stuffed animals at their designated donation center locations or ship them directly to the addresses listed on their website.
3. Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities maintains strict health and safety standards by accepting only new, unused, or recently purchased stuffed animals. They prioritize the highest level of safety and sanitation for the children and families they serve.
This charity provides stay-in accommodations for families in need with young patients receiving treatment at nearby children's hospitals. In 2024, they supported over 1.4 million family night stays across their 377 houses worldwide, offering comfort and a smile during challenging times.
4. Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots, run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, only accepts new toys. Its annual campaign typically runs from October through December and covers approximately 800 communities across all 50 states.
In 2024, this donation organization distributed 19 million toys to 7.3 million less fortunate children nationwide. The organization works closely with social services agencies, church groups, and local community centers to ensure that toys reach children from struggling families during the holiday season.
5. Pay Away the Layaway
The holiday season can be financially challenging for families on tight budgets. Pay Away the Layaway helps alleviate this burden by accepting monetary donations to purchase children's toys, blankets, baby items, and other necessities.
While they don't conduct traditional toy drives, their "Layaway Angels" program has helped over 100,000 families since 2011. Your financial contribution helps ensure every child can experience a joyful holiday season regardless of their family's economic situation, with proceeds dedicated to helping those experiencing homelessness or financial hardship.
Shop The Plush Toys Collection Now
Related Posts:
- Who Invented Stuffed Animals?
- What's The Largest Stuffed Animal Ever?
- What's The Best Stuffed Animal Brands?
Where You Can Donate Your Used Stuffies
1. Organizations/Charities
Each charitable organization maintains its donation policies. Some welcome donations of new and gently used stuffed animals to provide children with pre-loved items that still have plenty of life and a good chance at finding a new home. Others may only accept new and unused items, particularly those serving medically vulnerable populations.
The stuffed animal and plush toy market continues to grow, expected to reach over $4.3 billion by 2028. This growth has increased donation opportunities, with major organizations like The Toy Bank distributing 800,000 toys to needy children alone in 2024.
For plush toys no longer in good condition for donation, consider recycling programs that prevent textile waste from reaching landfills. [1].
2. Hospitals
Many hospital facilities accept stuffed animal donations to comfort young patients during treatment or provide entertainment in waiting areas. However, hospitals typically maintain strict hygiene protocols to protect vulnerable patients.
In 2025, approximately 72% of hospitals only accept new, unopened plush toys due to infection control concerns. Before donating, contact your local hospital to confirm their specific requirements and drop-off procedures. Hospitals may require donors to sanitize items thoroughly before donation.
3. Children’s Homes and Shelters
Children's homes, women's shelters, homeless shelters, and daycare centers welcome stuffed animal donations to comfort and emotionally support children in their care. These facilities serve kids in need who may be experiencing challenging situations and benefit from the security a teddy bear or other plush companion can provide.
Studies show that approximately 45% of surveyed shelter locations report improved emotional stability in children after receiving stuffed animals. These donations can make a significant difference in helping children cope with difficult transitions to a new home environment.
4. Toy Donation Pick Up
Some charities offer pickup services for donors unable to travel to drop-off locations. Organizations like Donation Town specialize in connecting donors with charitable institutions that will collect items directly from their homes.
In 2024, donation pickup services facilitated the collection of over 1.2 million toys nationwide, making the donation process more accessible and convenient. Check with local charities to see if they offer this service or partner with pickup networks. Many organizations organize regular collection drives throughout the year.
5. Police & Fire Departments
Local police and fire departments often keep stuffed animals on hand to comfort children during emergencies or traumatic situations. Many police and fire departments welcome stuffed animals to children experiencing crisis events.[2]
Events like the 2025 Hershey Bears' GIANT Teddy Bear Toss collected 102,343 stuffed animals in a single game, many distributed to first responder programs. Most departments accept both new and lightly used plush toys, but it's best to contact your local station to confirm their specific requirements before you donate.
FAQs
How do you donate stuffed animals?
The donation process varies by organization. Start by researching local charities that accept stuffed animal donations and noting their specific requirements. Some accept lightly used items, while others require new toys only.
Before donating used stuffed toy animals, clean them thoroughly following the organization's guidelines. Many groups provide detailed cleaning instructions on their websites, including using soap, gentle cycle washing machine settings, or wiping with a damp cloth. Finally, deliver your donations to the designated drop-off location or arrange pickup.
Can you donate brand-new stuffed animals?
Yes, brand-new stuffed animals are universally welcomed by all donation programs. While organizations like Toys for Tots and Ronald McDonald House Charities specifically require new items, most charitable institutions accept toys in various conditions.
Lightly used stuffed toy animals are acceptable for many programs, provided they are clean, functional, and follow the organization's donation guidelines. New items are always the safest option when in doubt, especially for donations to hospitals or medical facilities. Every teddy bear donation helps children who need comfort during difficult times.
Final Thoughts
Donating stuffed animals is a meaningful way to extend the life of these cherished toys while supporting children in need. With the plush toy market continuing to grow and major events like the Hershey Bears' Teddy Bear Toss collecting over 100,000 stuffed animals, more opportunities exist than ever to make an impact through your donations.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to donate the stuffed animals your children have outgrown. Consider including other useful items like books, children's clothes, and household supplies to maximize your contribution! Remember that when you donate, you're helping people in your community and giving stuffed animals a chance to be re-homed and loved again.
Also, if you're looking for stuffed animals to give, you can always check Toynk.
Shop The Plush Toys Collection Now
References:
- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-05-06/toy-recycling-program-plastics-landfill-big-w/101044932
- https://news.berkeley.edu/2018/12/04/uc-berkeley-police-collect-toys-for-camp-fire-suvivors/
