Lansing Community Gathered for Toy & Hygiene Drive as Economic Pressures Mount During Holiday Season

This week, Michigan Families for Fair Care hosted "Give Back, Lift Up," a week-long toy and hygiene drive that collected donations for local families facing economic pressures this holiday season. The drive culminated in a special community conversation where small business owners and local residents shared how recent policy changes have compounded financial challenges during what is typically the most expensive time of year.

“We really want to inspire kids to imagine and to be creative, and in that we have to help them get there. Being able to imagine with toys, have fun and be a kid.” said Colton Hughes, small business owner of Dungeons and Flagons. “The cuts to all the programs are going to affect small businesses, from tariffs and increased prices. We just wanted to do what we can to build this community up.”

Additional Photos And Statements From Attendees Can Be Found Here.

The event came as families across Michigan face cumbersome economic burdens. Tariffs have made toys 10-20 percent more expensive, with tariff rates reaching 20% or more for toys for children under 12. Christmas trees are 10 percent more expensive this year, and holiday decorations face supply shortages with inventory down 20 percent in some locations driving costs up further. A financial analysis from LendingTree found that tariffs translate into an average additional cost of $132 per shopper this holiday season.

"We have so many families that are suffering right now. Families with many children who do not know how they are going to have a Christmas for their kids. " said Marna Wilson, MI-07 community volunteer. “This [toy drive] is a wonderful gift. We will gladly distribute it to our families and they will be very grateful for this opportunity. Thank you so much.”  

The Republican Tax Law enacted in July included significant cuts to essential health care and nutrition assistance programs in favor of tax cuts that primarily benefited the ultra-wealthy and large corporations. Nearly all House Republicans voted for the law, including Congressman John James (MI-10). These policy changes, combined with tariff-driven price increases on everyday goods, have created a challenging economic minefield for many families as they enter the holiday season.

Donations collected during the week-long drive went directly to the Salus Center, who need extra support during this difficult time, helping ensure that all communities can experience some joy this season.