The spirit of the season comes to life in the Bronx thanks to the collaboration between the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and Casita María Center for Arts & Education. The Chamber has launched its Annual Toy Drive, inviting Bronx residents and businesses to donate new, unwrapped toys for children participating in Casita María programs.
“We are proud to continue this beloved Bronx Chamber holiday tradition,” said Chamber President Lisa Sorin. “Every year, our business community and residents respond in extraordinary ways to support Bronx children. This year we are especially honored to partner with Casita Maria, a beacon of hope, creativity and opportunity for generations of families in the Bronx.”
Toy collection locations are now available at participating businesses and community centers including: The Pearl Movement, MindBody Hair Salon, Caridad Restaurant, Residence Inn, NYC Herbs and Simone Development. Businesses wishing to become a collection point can contact the Bronx Chamber directly.
Since its founding in 1934 by Claire and Elizabeth Sullivan along with Sister Mary Imelda, Casita María began in East Harlem as a refuge for newly arrived Puerto Rican families in need of support and opportunities. Now located in Hunts Point/Longwood, the center has become a vibrant community space that combines education, arts and personal development for youth in one of the most culturally rich, but under-resourced, neighborhoods in New York.
Casita Maria has been the birthplace of artistic and cultural leaders of national and international impact. Among his students are Tito Puente, legend of Latin music; David Vaneltín, Grammy-winning flutist; and Grand Wizzard Theodore, pioneer of hip-hop and creator of the “scratch” technique that revolutionized modern music. These achievements reflect how arts education can strengthen the identity, confidence and possibilities of young people, especially in communities with limited access to the arts.
Each year, Casita Maria serves more than 1,000 children and youth through after-school and summer programs that combine academic support, social-emotional learning, and arts experiences. Through presentations, exhibitions and public events, the center also impacts tens of thousands of community members, promoting pride, unity and cultural celebration in the Bronx.
“We are honored to be the beneficiaries of the Bronx Chamber Toy Drive this year,” said Felix Urrutia, Jr., executive director of Casita María. “For many children and families we serve, the holiday season can be difficult. This collaboration ensures that every child experiences the joy and sense of belonging that come with the holidays, and reflects the best our community can achieve when it comes together.”
Casita María’s impact goes beyond arts and education. Young people from the South Bronx, an area historically affected by economic barriers, find a foundation for long-term success in the center. Her students include artists, dancers, journalists, musicians and civic leaders who discovered their passion and potential at Casita María, such as Tina Ramírez, founder of Ballet Hispánico; Steffan “Mr. Wiggles” Clemente, legendary hip-hop dancer; and Ricky Flores and David González from Seis del Sur.
This legacy lives on: when young people have access to creative spaces, mentoring, and community support, they thrive academically, socially, and artistically, building pathways to college, careers, and leadership. As Casita María approaches its centennial, it continues to demonstrate how investment in the arts and education transforms lives and communities for generations.
Toy donations will be received until Monday, December 1, 2025 at all listed collection points. The Bronx Chamber encourages residents and businesses to participate and bring holiday cheer to Bronx families.
For more information about the Bronx Chamber Toy Drive, visit bronxchamber.org or email [email protected]. To learn more about Casita María, visit casitamaria.org.
