Toys are an important part of childhood and they can provide hours of fun and learning. However, not all children have access to toys and donating toys in Brisbane is a wonderful way to make a difference to their lives. When you donate toys, you are giving them the gift of play, essential for their development. It helps them learn about the world around them, develop their social skills, and build their imaginations.
There are many places to donate toys in Brisbane. We have found the best organisations to donate toys to who know how to get them to kids who need them most. No matter how you choose to donate, you can be sure that your gift will make a difference in the life of a child and help a family who may be less financially secure than you!
When donating toys, it is important to make sure that they are in good condition and you should avoid donating toys that are broken or missing pieces. Not only does donating toys help kids in need, but it can help to teach your child about giving, an important quality to help develop empathy and compassion toward others. It also helps to reduce waste and keep toys out of landfill.
Save the Children
Save the Children is a charity that helps disadvantaged children. They work off the principles of health, education, protection and support for children. Their work takes them across the world, wherever they are needed. This includes providing support around natural disasters, conflict, disease or where children are being neglected or abused. Their fundraising work goes towards supporting these programs.
They accept donations of toys, books, and other items. You can drop off your donations at any of their stores or at their head office located. Find them at 28 Beesley St, West End.
You can find a list of their op shop locations on their website..
St Vincent de Paul Society
The St Vincent de Paul Society, or Vinnies as it is affectionately known as, is a Catholic charity that helps disadvantaged people and people living in poverty. It has a long history of helping Australians as it was established here in 1854. There are over 200 programs across the country to support their mission. Donating toys at one of their many local stores across Brisbane will go a big way towards this.
Visit the St Vincent de Paul Society website to find your nearest donation location.
Red Cross
The Red Cross is a global humanitarian organisation that provides aid to people in need. It provides a wide range of services, including disaster relief, blood donation, first aid, and refugee assistance.The Red Cross does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, nationality, or political affiliation, making it a well supported charity with societies in over 180 countries around the world. There are 10 Red Cross shops in and around Brisbane, where you can donate toys during trading hours.
Take some time to find your nearest Red Cross Store to donate your toys to.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army (or the Salvos as you may hear it called) is a Christian church and international social service organisation that was founded in London. They work with every demographic and age group that may be experiencing hardship or injustice as well as being involved in national issues. There are around 20 op shop locations across Brisbane to donate at.
Click here to find your nearest Salvation Army location.
Toy Libraries
Toy libraries are a great place to donate toys in your local area. These libraries lend toys to families for free or for a small fee, so your donation will help other families who may not be able to afford to buy toys. Often these organisations are run by volunteers so opening hours may vary and it always pays to visit the websites or call ahead.
We wrote about how to use local toy libraries here.
You can learn more about Toy Libraries Australia on their website.
The Brisbane South Toy Library
The Brisbane South Toy Library is located at 75 Old Progress Rd, Richlands. They accept donations during opening hours (Thursday and Saturdays, 9.30am-11.00am).
Please visit their website to see which toys are eligible for donation.
The Carindale Toy Library
The Carindale Toy Library is at 27 Narracott St, Carindale. Opening hours vary each month, so check the calendar on the website before you visit.
The Play Matters Toy Library
The Play Matters Toy Library is in Moorooka at 112 Vendale Ave. The opening hours are usually on a Saturday but dates vary due to volunteer availability. Take a look at their website here.
Care Kits for Kids
Care Kits for Kids is an organisation that puts together a care backpack for disadvantaged kids, with 2 days worth of supplies to make them feel valued and worthy. Backpacks include items like new clothes, books, toiletries and education supplies. Donating a new or handmade toy will bring joy to a child who may not have much.
You can find out where to donate on their website.
Lifeline
Lifeline is a non-profit organisation that provides support to people in need. They offer a 24-hour crisis support service, as well as a range of other services, including information and referrals, counselling, support and education. There are many Lifeline stores across Brisbane where you can donate books.
Find out more about Lifeline here.
Children’s Hospital Foundation
If you want to make a difference to the lives of sick kids in hospital, the Children’s Hospital Foundation is the place for you. Please note: due safety and hospital restrictions, toys must be new and a wish list is available on the website. Take some time to have a look at it before you purchase anything. Drop off is available directly at the hospital by visiting Level 2, Queensland Children’s Hospital 199 Grey Street, South Brisbane. You are welcome to park in the 10 minute drop off zone.
Read more about how your toys can help here.
Givit
Givit is an online platform that acts as a platform to connect people in need with donors. Visit the website, enter the details about the toys and get connected with an organisation who can accept delivery or organise a pick up for you.
You can also search your area to find people in need. See the website for more details.
When you donate toys in Brisbane, you are giving kids a chance to learn and grow, an essential part of any childhood. If you have any gently used toys that you are no longer using, please consider donating them to an organisation we have listed. Your donation can make a real difference in the life of a child.
