Job Center in Solinger distributes presents to 500 kids
In the heart of Solingen, the municipal job center, Technical Operations (TBS), and the Wuppertal "Toys Company" have once again joined forces to bring joy during the Advent season. This year marks the third time these organisations have collaborated on this heartwarming project.
The future of the Wuppertal "Toys Company" is undergoing a transformation, with Sascha von Schwedler, the project leader, aiming to create a future-proof new corporate structure. As a result, the Barmen location will be the only one continuing the toy donation project, with the Vohwinkel branch closing by the end of the year due to a reduction in funding.
Despite these changes, Sascha von Schwedler expressed mixed feelings about the closure, as the toy donation project has always been close to his heart. He was delighted to see around 500 toys find new owners in this year's gift action.
The TBS collected well-preserved toys throughout the year, and in 2025, they will continue to do so at the disposal center Bärenloch on Cronenberger Straße 177. The container for toy donations will be accessible during the opening hours of the EBZ (Monday to Friday 7:30 AM to 3:45 PM and Saturday 7:30 AM to 12:15 PM).
At the Customer Service Center in Solingen, toys for children aged two to ten were spread out for free choice, creating a Christmas wonderland for all who visited. Employees of the Wuppertal job center, as well as their offspring, motivated each other to part with some toys to make other children happy.
Sustainability was an additional plus for Julia Heitmann and Martina Chudek, as what was donated would have been a shame to dispose of. Sabine Boddenberg, the first caseworker, experienced many shining eyes and heartfelt "thank yous" at the Center.
The collaborative toy donation project is a testament to the spirit of community and generosity in Solingen and Wuppertal. With the new corporate structure of the "Toys Company" set to be implemented in the coming year, Solingen customers of the job center may potentially benefit from this initiative in the future.
For those interested in donating well-preserved toys in 2025, local toy drives organized by municipalities or charitable organizations, children's hospitals or family support centers, nonprofit organizations specializing in child welfare and Christmas toy distributions, and municipal recycling or donation centers are typical options. For exact details on officially recognized toy donation points and deadlines for the 2025 Advent season, contacting Solingen’s municipal office or community service centers would be the best approach.
Sascha von Schwedler, as part of the transformation of the Wuppertal "Toys Company," is aiming to create a future-proof new corporate structure that prioritizes sustainable living. In 2025, the Technical Operations (TBS) will continue to collect well-preserved toys at the disposal center Bärenloch on Cronenberger Straße 177, fostering a home-and-garden of shared resources and community spirit.
