This year, the holiday spirit shines even brighter as Ridge Hill teams up with Toys for Tots Westchester & Putnam, which for the first time is proudly headquartered in the City of Yonkers. As part of its commitment to uplifting local families, Ridge Hill is donating $500 per child to the Toys-for-Tots Youth Volunteer Program, giving young volunteers the chance to shop directly at Ridge Hill for gifts that will bring joy to children across Westchester. Co-coordinator Patricia Laforey and community outreach manager Harold McKoy Sr., along with members of the Westchester County Police and Fire Departments, will escort the youth volunteers for a special day of Christmas shopping and service.
To add to the holiday cheer, Shake Shack at Ridge Hill will host a Giveback Tuesday, donating a percentage of the day’s sales to Toys for Tots Westchester. This continued support helps the organization meet the growing needs of families throughout the county. Last year, Toys for Tots Westchester distributed 48,000 toys, and with nationwide cutbacks affecting programs everywhere, the 2025 goal has risen to 100,000 toys. Headquartered at 578 Nepperhan Avenue in Yonkers and supported by local partners like James H. Farrell Lodge #34, the Luther V. Garrison Sr. Masonic Foundation, Teamsters Local 456, and Outback Steakhouse; Toys for Tots Westchester remains committed to making sure no child is forgotten during the holidays.
The youth volunteers, who represent the heart of this mission, shared what this experience means to them. Dillon, age 13, said, “Not all kids have the opportunity to volunteer.”Saniyah, 15, added, “I enjoy making memories with the other youth volunteers.” And 13-year-old Trevor Simms, who has served with the Masons at their Christmas giveaways for years, said, “I have been volunteering with the Masons from Yonkers all my life, and now volunteering directly with Toys for Tots is great.” With the support of Ridge Hill, local agencies, and dedicated volunteers, Toys for Tots Westchester continues spreading hope, kindness, and Christmas joy to thousands of children across our community.
