State Police Toy Drive Supports Prince George's County Children

Maryland State Police began accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys on December 11, and are using barrack lobbies as drop off points across the state, including in Prince George's County. Residents can bring donations during normal business hours. All collected toys will be distributed to community organizations, local partners and programs around the state.

Suggested items include toys for children of all ages, such as games, books, stuffed animals, arts and crafts and other kid friendly items. The agency has clarified that it cannot accept donations that include realistic looking weapons or any gifts containing food. To locate a nearby barrack, residents are directed to consult the Maryland State Police map of locations or the statewide list of barracks.

For Prince George's County families facing higher household expenses this year, donated toys can ease the direct cost of holiday gifts and complement existing social services. The use of police barracks as collection sites reflects a practical deployment of public facilities to support charitable distribution, lowering overhead for partners who handle logistics and making donations accessible across neighborhoods.

There are broader policy implications for local service delivery. By routing donations through law enforcement facilities, the program builds on community outreach efforts and creates predictable points for drop off that can be staffed during regular hours. That arrangement can help partner organizations focus resources on distribution and wraparound services rather than intake operations. For retailers and local markets, increased charitable giving during the holidays can slightly shift consumer demand patterns, particularly for lower priced items that are commonly donated.

Residents planning to donate should ensure items are new and unwrapped, avoid realistic looking toy weapons and exclude food items. Drop offs at barrack lobbies are intended to serve as straightforward, no cost donation points that channel support quickly to families in need across Prince George's County and beyond.