QC Toys for Tots launches campaign amid urgent need for donations

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) -Quad Cities Toys for Tots has launched its 2026 campaign with an urgent appeal for community support, saying donations are needed now to help meet growing demand during the holiday season.

The program serves about 10,000 children across the Quad Cities each year and aims to provide roughly five gifts per child. Organizers say they are facing a serious shortage of toys, particularly for children ages 7 and older.

“We are really in need this year,” said Sarah Decker of Quad Cities Toys for Tots during a recent appearance on KWQC-TV6’s Quad Cities Live.

While larger gifts are always appreciated, Decker said small, inexpensive items can make a meaningful difference for children receiving assistance.

Popular donations include fidget toys, squishy toys, Barbie dolls, Lego sets, coloring books and crayons.

Registration, verification, and distribution process

Families seeking holiday assistance can register through the Toys for Tots website or mobile app.

Applicants must verify eligibility in person at NorthPark Mall. Verification dates are scheduled for Nov. 20 and Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Dec. 4 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Distribution is slated for Dec. 11-13 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Organizers said the Toys for Tots mobile app also allows users to donate funds, sign up to volunteer, request a toy collection box and access other program information.

Upcoming public events for Toys For Tots

Several public events are planned throughout the campaign to raise awareness and collect donations. Toys for Tots representatives will participate in an upcoming car cruise and community events, including the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds Craft Show on Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and activities associated with Festival of Trees.

One of the largest collection events will be the annual KWQC-TV6 Toys for Tots Drive, scheduled for Dec. 4. Community members can drop off new, unwrapped toys throughout the day at 805 Brady Street, Davenport, IA.

Collaboration with area schools

Toys for Tots is also working with area schools on a pilot program designed to help identify eligible families and simplify the registration process.

For more information about Toys For Tots including how to help

Additional information about donating, volunteering or applying for assistance is available through the Toys for Tots mobile app and the local Toys For Tots website here.