"Some children probably wouldn't have gotten anything for Christmas. Now all of a sudden they have $75 to spend. For some kids it's like $75-million," said Regina Mainor of North Central Victims Services.
This year the group has struggled to match last year's donations, but have been rallying to get more support in this final stretch to Saturday.
"The smiles on their faces it means a lot. A lot of these kids were abused. It means a lot," said Darryl Boozer of Philadelphia Frontiers.
Sure, some kids have spent the money on toys but group leaders also saw the purchases go beyond that.
"They had such a sense for others, picking up gifts for grandparents, mommy, or daddy."
The participants are recommended by 18 different organizations including Boys and Girls clubs, homeless shelters, and North Central Victims Services. For one day, these children could just be children a privilege some of their circumstances have deprived them of.
"To see victims happy, it makes us excited. It's part of their restoration, restoring back to a normal lifestyle."
The toy giveaway takes place on Saturday at the Target in Wynnefield Heights, but if the Frontiers received donations beyond that they will still pass them along to children in need.
Club address
7715 Crittenden St. #333, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Phone number: 215-242-2223
