The Holidays are here again, and that means it’s time to kick off West Sound Treatment Center’s annual holiday Toy Drive! WSTC serves all of Kitsap County and beyond with substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and services from offices in Bremerton, Port Orchard, and Poulsbo.
Last year, WSTC gave toys to 61 children thanks to the generosity of our donors. These were children of our SUD treatment clients, many of whom still struggle daily against addiction. They made the choice to turn their lives around, and that includes reconnecting with their children.
The value of these toys extend far beyond the $10 to $20 they cost. Supporting WSTC’s Toy Drive benefits the parent, the child, and the community.
But how does a toy do so much?
How the toy benefits the child
When a parent gives their child a gift, it fulfills a child’s wish. Plus, it demonstrates that the parent cares, helps build the child’s self-esteem, and lets them know that their life has value. Children of individuals with SUDs are at high risk of trauma and of misusing substances themselves, so any gift to them takes on exceptional significance.
How the toy benefits the parent
A parent benefits because showing that they care strengthens the parent-child relationship, and the act of kindness helps them grow emotionally. Giving a gift to a child also increases the parent’s feeling of well-being. (Our donors enjoy this benefit, too!)
How the toy benefits the community
Supporting addiction recovery benefits the community, too. Recent U.S. statistics show a loss of over $400 billion annually due to the misuse of alcohol and illicit substances. Much of this is due to law enforcement and criminal justice costs.
How the toy benefits you!
So, by donating a new, unwrapped toy at one of our three office locations or providing funds for us to purchase toys through our donations webpage, you participate in strengthening children, families, and the community, and you increase your own feelings of well-being. Sounds like a great way to generate some holiday spirit!
