Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in October 2023 and was updated in November 2025. For many years, America’s Car-Mart has proudly supported Arkansas Children’s Hospital through its Holiday Toy Drive, and we’re honored to continue this meaningful tradition.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- Why toys play a powerful role in helping children heal and feel joy during hospital stays.
- How America’s Car-Mart supports Arkansas Children’s Hospital and other hospitals through its annual Holiday Toy Drive.
- What families and hospital staff say about the emotional impact of toy donations during the holidays.
Kids love toys! And when kids are in the hospital, toys have a special kind of magic.
Studies show that toys can aid in the healing process, create a sense of normalcy, and bring moments of happiness to them. “It’s more important than ever to collect toys for children in hospitals,” says Curtis Valentine, General Manager, America’s Car-Mart of Rogers, Ark. Every year, Curtis and his team are on a mission to collect thousands of toys for kids.
That’s why, every November, Car-Mart hosts its annual Holiday Toy Drive, delivering joy and cheer to kids in the hospital during the holiday season.
“Getting a toy while in the hospital, especially during the holidays, can have a huge impact on a child’s well-being,” Curtis continues. “This is the reason behind our Holiday Toy Drive.”
The joy of toys for kids in the hospitals
Parents with children in the hospital understand the significance of toys.
“I know what it feels like from a parent’s standpoint to have my child pick out toys. You get stuck at the hospital and wonder how you will have Christmas for your kid,” says Angie Purter, Area Operations Manager, Prattville, Ala. Angie’s daughter, Makyah, spent a few Christmases at the hospital. [Learn more about Makyah’s journey].
“If there’s a child in the hospital over the holiday, they are already going through so much, and they know it’s Christmas time,” says Taylor Hernandez, Regional Operations Support Manager, Region 4. “I can relate to how the parents must feel. They’re stressed and worried about how their child will have Christmas. So, when the hospital provides Christmas, it’s very special.” Taylor’s son, Eddie, was a nine-year-old patient at a children’s hospital. [Learn more about Eddie’s story].
Toys are motivation for kids
Toys are more than they seem in a children’s hospital setting, according to Lane Hume, Volunteer Coordinator, Arkansas Children’s Northwest. “Toys are more than just playthings; they’re tools for healing. They help kids learn, cope, and find comfort during medical treatment, making the hospital a little less scary,” Lane says. “Toys provide a healthy distraction, positive engagement, and even help reduce anxiety and depression. Our Child Life Team uses toys every day to help young patients understand what they’re going through and feel more at ease. For many children, toys aren’t just magical; they’re essential to the healing process.” [Read more about the Magic of Toy Drives.]
The magic of toys doesn’t end with the holidays. Thanks to generous toy drives like the Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive and our Holiday Toy Drive, the hospital is able to support patients and families throughout the entire year. “Because of toy drives, we’re able to bring moments of joy and comfort to children all year, not just during the holidays,” Lane continues. “They’re a lasting gift from a caring community.”
All toys collected from the Holiday Toy Drive are given to hospitalized children and their siblings for use during the holidays or year-round. “It’s about the family. Putting a smile on their faces – even if it’s for 15 minutes,” concludes Crystal Kuster, Small Claims Manager, Claremore, Okla., and the organizer of Car-Mart’s first toy drive. “If we can remove them from their reality and help them forget what’s going on, that’s what it’s all about – giving them a moment of happiness.”
Give a Toy, Share the Joy
Discover the joy of giving this season! Join us in making a difference by learning about our exciting Holiday Toy Drive. All toys will be delivered to local children’s hospitals and organizations.
