Students Spread Holiday Joy with Annual “Stuff the Ambulance” Toy Drive at Dunbar High School

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The holiday spirit is thriving at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School as students collected toys for children at Kentucky Children’s Hospital during their annual “Stuff the Ambulance” event. This year marks the 17th anniversary of the initiative, which aims to bring joy to young patients during the holiday season.

The event was organized by students who have dedicated months to gathering donations. “We honestly start from the beginning of the year,” said Ayah Shakhashiro, a senior at the school. “Seeing all these toys fill up the window was really nice, knowing all these kids could get these toys.” The students managed to fill an entire ambulance with a variety of toys, which will be distributed to children in the hospital.

According to Deb Rice of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, the impact of receiving a toy can be significant. “Working in a children’s hospital, these kids go through so much — things that would make an adult whine and cry,” Rice explained. “Really, just a toy makes them feel better.” The hospital staff ensures that once the toys arrive, children will have the opportunity to choose one for themselves, creating moments of excitement and joy for the young patients.

Rice described the emotional response from children as they pick out toys. “To be able to walk into a room and see all these toys and pick one out, it thrills them,” she said. “You can see it in their eyes and their smiles.” Such experiences can provide much-needed happiness for children who are spending their holidays in the hospital.

As this year’s toy drive comes to a close, organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s event with hopes of collecting even more donations to brighten the holidays for children in need. “It’s been amazing to see the support from our community,” Shakhashiro added, reflecting on the impact of their efforts.

This remarkable initiative not only brings joy to the children receiving the toys but also fosters a sense of community and empathy among the students participating in the drive. The “Stuff the Ambulance” event continues to be a meaningful tradition at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, highlighting the importance of giving back during the holiday season.