Supporting children and families during the holidays is one of the most meaningful ways to give back to our Western North Carolina community. Each year, local organizations, volunteers, and generous neighbors come together to make sure everyone feels the magic of the season. If you’re looking to get involved, we’ve rounded up a list of opportunities to donate, sponsor, or participate in Angel Trees and toy drives throughout the area.
🎁 Toy Drives & Angel Tree Programs
ABCCM (Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry)
ABCCM invites the community to volunteer, donate, sponsor a child, or even host an Angel Tree to support local families this holiday season.
Blue Ridge Healthy Families
Serving families in Avery, Buncombe, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey Counties. You can sponsor one of their Angel Tree children by signing up and dropping off gifts by November 29.
Eblen Charities
Eblen Charities provides toys, clothing, and essential items for families through their annual Saint Nicholas Project. Girl Scout Troop 10067 is collecting toys on Eblen’s behalf — drop off a new, unwrapped toy at the Keller Williams Asheville office (48 Grove St) anytime through December 5.
Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots
The WNC Chapter of Toys for Tots supports children ages 1–13 across Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, Polk, Transylvania, and Yancey Counties through locally operated toy-collection and distribution efforts.
Salvation Army of Asheville
The Salvation Army and Walmart have partnered to offer multiple Angel Trees throughout Asheville and surrounding counties. Use the Angel Tree locator tool on their website to find an in-store tree near you or to shop online.
YWCA of Asheville
The YWCA’s Virtual Angel Tree fulfills holiday wishes for families involved in their community programs.
🧸 Children’s Homes with Wish Lists
Black Mountain Home for Children
Become a Christmas sponsor, donate items from their Amazon list, or request a wish list for one or more children.
Eliada Home
Support by sponsoring a child or donating items from their Amazon wish list.
🎄 Other Places to Check
Many smaller drives also take place each year. Be sure to check with:
- Local police & fire departments
- School PTA holiday drives
- Churches & community centers
- Small businesses and breweries
