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For the past eight years, Whole Earth Provision Co. has collected new toys and books for children who, through no fault of their own, might not have received gifts for the holidays. Your generosity provided children in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio with presents to brighten their day. The charitable organizations who distributed the gifts are grateful for the donations.

And so, once again we are asking for your help to make this year’s Drive a success. Here’s how it works: for each new toy or new kid’s book, in its original packaging with a value of $10 or more (or very close to it), you will receive a $5 off Whole Earth coupon. All Whole Earth stores will accept donations beginning November 15th and running through December 15th. Our beneficiaries ask that you please not wrap the gifts.

The toys and books will be distributed by these organizations: in Austin – Manos de Cristo; in Dallas – The Birthday Party Project; in Houston – Star of Hope Mission; and in San Antonio – The Children’s Shelter.

You may make as many contributions as you’d like, and receive a $5 off Whole Earth coupon for each one worth $10, but the coupons cannot be combined. They must be redeemed in separate transactions at a Whole Earth brick and mortar store or online.

Thank you for helping to brighten the holidays for a disadvantaged child.

Please read on to learn more about the organizations in each city who will receive your contributions.

In Austin: Manos de Cristo

Since 1988, Manos de Cristo has been providing services for the homeless and working poor of Austin. Manos provides basic needs like food and clothing, but they also operate a dental clinic and conduct classes in computer skills and financial literacy. Their goal is to promote dignity and self-reliance among those less fortunate.

In Dallas: The Birthday Party Project

The Birthday Party Project hosts monthly birthday parties at homeless and transitional living facilities in Dallas. They celebrate all children (ages 1 to 21) that have a birthday that month and invite other children and family members to join the party. Their aim is to bring joy and show that kids matter!

In Houston: Star of Hope Mission

For more than a century, the Star of Hope Mission has ministered to the greater Houston area, meeting the needs of nearly 1000 men, women and their children nightly. Star of Hope focuses on employment, life management, education, spiritual growth, and recovery from substance abuse. They work to end homelessness one family at a time. 

In San Antonio: The Children’s Shelter

The Children’s Shelter provides emergency shelter and therapeutic, residential treatment for children in crisis. Their Family Strengthening programs teach nurturing parenting skills to vulnerable families and help them to overcome crises, while the Children’s Shelter’s mental health clinic provides trauma-sensitive therapeutic interventions for children who have suffered maltreatment.