In 2020, the Museum added a new tradition to the holiday season: the annual Joy to the Borough: Toy Drive and Giveaway, formerly known as Share the Toy.
Each November and December, the Museum collects new, unwrapped toys for children up to 14 years old and distributes them for free during a special giveaway event. Donations come from staff, Trustees, and the broader Brooklyn community. In 2024, the giveaway provided 959 local kids with a new toy for the holidays. Attendees can also pick up clothing and other gifts for children, provided by a variety of corporate sponsors.
The giveaway event doubles as a holiday party, with a festive lineup of art-making activities and seasonal fun for all ages.
Over the years, the event has been organized in partnership with Kinnect Foundation, Grandma’s Hands, Vulcan Society, and F.O.O.D. (Fueling Our Own Development).