Toys for Tots has distributed free toys to children for decades. Photo courtesy of Toys for Tots

1. Toys for Tots

For decades, the Marine Toys for Tots Program has collected and distributed new toys to less fortunate children at Christmas. Applications to receive toys can be filled out online. Find your local chapter's application for toys by using the search engine; the chapter's page will have links to family and agency toy applications.

2. Salvation Army

The Salvation Army offers a variety of services to those in need, including the iconic Rescue Christmas program, which features the red kettles and jingling bells. Donations help provide shelter, food assistance, and other services to the needy. There's also the Angel Tree Program, in which donors purchase gifts to fulfill the angel wishes on the tree. To apply, start with the online application process or contact your local chapter.

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Adopt a letter from a real kid and send gifts in Santa’s place through USPS Operation Santa. Photo courtesy of Operation Santa

3. USPS Operation Santa

Each year, thousands of letters are sent to Santa from children around the country through the US Postal Service. Those sent to a specific North Pole address are posted online, where anyone can read them and adopt a letter writer to shop for. 

4. United Way

United Way's local offices work hard to ensure that all families experience some joy during the holiday season. To get help, enter your zip code to search for your local chapter and contact it for more information.

5. Operation Homefront

Operation Homefront’s Holiday Toy Drive helps bring holiday cheer to military families. Start by registering for an account. When you are eligible for the event, it will appear on your Dashboard and you can register to attend. Also, keep an eye on the events calendar for the events near you.

6. Santa's Little Helpers

This Reddit community aims to buy gifts for those who may not otherwise have the means. Those with a Reddit account who want to apply can make an Amazon wish list (items totaling less than $100), fill out an application, and, if approved, write a post to the community about your needs.

7. Black Girl Beauty Foundation

This group spreads holiday cheer and gifts to low-income families in four different locations: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Swansea, South Carolina; West Columbia, SC; and Atlanta, Georgia. Click on the state's holiday give-a-thon page to register.

8. Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities offers Christmas assistance to families that need help, with local offices providing services based on the needs of their communities. Go to the national site, search for your local chapter, and reach out to get the help you need.

Other Resources for Free Toys for Kids this Holiday Season:

• Local churches can be good resources. Many help families in need for the holidays.
• Local Buy Nothing Facebook groups and Freecycle are great places to find free second-hand toys.
• Local chapters of the Lions Club and other similar service-focused groups often host toy drives.
• Food pantries sometimes stock small toys for children, check with the ones near you.