Spreading Cheer: Holton Students Give Back Through Holiday Toy Drive

Amy Javaid, President & CEO of A Wider Circle, P’27, inspired Holton-Arms' Lower School students on a recent visit to campus, explaining the organization's mission to advance equity and support families across the Washington, DC region.

Ms. Javaid highlighted the need for community support by inviting ten students to stand at the front, then asked three to sit. The room grew quiet as she explained that seven out of every ten people who come to A Wider Circle for help do not have a bed to sleep in. Students listened attentively as they absorbed the idea that children just like them may have to go to school tired, hungry, or cold.

Javaid emphasized that A Wider Circle encourages donations of furniture, clothes, and toys in "dignity condition"—something you would happily give to your best friend. She also encouraged students to donate a new toy in support of Holton's annual Holiday Toy Drive and A Wider Circle's goal to collect 10,000 new toys to help children experience joy during the holiday season.

Both the Lower and Middle Schools are participating in the toy drive, helping spread warmth, dignity, and joy, one gift at a time.

Contributions of new, unwrapped toys that do not require batteries may be placed in the collection box inside the Lower School entrance through Thursday, December 18. Retail gift cards are also welcome and can be delivered directly to Mrs. Morris in the Lower School office.