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Santa's Workshop

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Spreading holiday cheer and going green by donating gently used and new toys to families in need.

For more than four decades, Santa’s Workshop has brought holiday cheer to Greensboro families in need. Organized by the Greensboro Youth Council (GYC), the program partners with local agencies to collect, clean, and distribute toys to children throughout the community. Dedicated volunteers carefully cleaned gently used toys, ensuring every gift is ready for a new home.

An approved agency must refer families to receive toys through the Santa’s Workshop program.

Donation Dates: November 3 - December 1

We’re collecting new and gently used toys, bikes, electronics, and more for children ages 6 months to 13 years. See Toy Giving Guidelines below for items we collect. Also, see Drop Off Locations for sites to bring your toys. 

Ways to Help

  • Browse the GYC Santa's Workshop Wishlist on Amazon to pick and purchase a toy or toys that will be shipped directly to the GYC Office. It's that easy, and you'll have the receipt for your donation. You can also purchase one from a local store and drop off at any of our collection sites.
  • Donate monetarily to help us buy new toys! You can also mail a donation to: Greensboro Youth Council, Attn: Santa's Workshop, PO Box 3136, Greensboro, NC 27402.
  • Become a Drop-Off Location! Help make giving simple and impactful for our community. By becoming a drop-off site, you’ll make it easy for others to donate new or gently used toys. We’ll provide everything you need—a collection box, a poster, and giving guides. You can also choose to host the box internally for your staff, customers, or members.
    Deadline: October 6, 2025

Volunteer Opportunities

Sign up to help us prepare for Santa's Workshop! We need volunteers for:SantasWorkshop027edit

  • Data entry (October 14, 28; November 3, 12, 13, 18) 
  • Wrapping boxes (October 14, 28, 29)
  • Stuffing letters (November 18, 24, 25)
  • Cleaning and sorting donations (December 8-11)
    • Community groups, families, and adults are allowed to volunteer with us on December 9-11.
    • Adults must accompany children 10 and under.
    • If you'd like your group to volunteer, please contact us.
  • Shopping days (December 12-13)
    • Only teens can sign up for the shopping days.
    • If you sign up for the shopping days, you must attend the mandatory training on December 4 at 6:30 pm.

Sign up now to reserve your spot!

Santa's Workshop

Drop-Off Locations:

Hours may vary by location. Please call the specific drop-off location to confirm their available times.

  • Recreation Center
    • Lindley Recreation Center, 2907 Springwood Dr. 
    • Griffin Recreation Center, 5301 Hilltop Rd., Jamestown
    • Glenwood Recreation Center, 2010 Coliseum Blvd.
  • Libraries:
    • Kathleen Clay Edwards Library, 1420 Price Park Dr.
  • Other
    • Andrews High School, 1920 McGuinn Dr., High Point

Toy Giving Guidelines:

  • All toys should be new or used toys that are unbroken, not rusted, and in good condition.
  • Games and puzzles should be complete and have all pieces. Tape the sides of the boxes so that the pieces will not get lost.
  • Dolls should have all parts. Place doll clothes and accessories in a plastic bag and secure them with the doll.
  • Electronics should be in working condition. Batteries do not have to be included.SantasWorkshop036edit
  • All stuffed animals must be cleaned and no missing any parts or stuffing.
  • Bicycles, tricycles, and riding toys should be in working condition.
  • Sports equipment such as bowling or golfing sets should be boxed or placed in a sealed
  •  plastic bag.
  • No violent toys will be accepted. (no guns, spears, swords, etc).
  • All books need to be in new or good condition. No tears in pages, covers, and without stains.
  • Clothing and food are not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I just show up to pick up toys?
    • No. Santa’s Workshop is a referral-based program. We work directly with local social workers and school counselors to identify and refer families in need. We do not accept walk-ins or phone requests.
  2. How do I get referred?
    • Please speak with a social worker or guidance counselor. They must contact us directly to submit a referral on your behalf.
  3. When will I know if I’m accepted into the program?
    •  Your referring agency or contact will notify you regarding your status and next steps.
  4. Can I volunteer with my family on cleaning or prep days?
    •  Yes! We welcome families and groups to help us clean, sort, and prepare toys before distribution. It’s a great way to give back together.
  5. Can I volunteer on the shopping days?
    • Shopping days are reserved for teen volunteers only. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to join us on cleaning and prep days instead!

2025 Sponsors and Community Partners

  • Greensboro Public Libraries
  • Greensboro Community Recreation Centers

Want to be a Sponsor?

Become a sponsor for Santa's Workshop! Explore our sponsorship tiers and choose the level that works best for your organization. Every contribution makes a direct impact. Download our sponsorship packet to learn more.