For many families in Detroit, the holiday season is a bittersweet reminder of joy interwoven with struggle. For parents experiencing or at risk of homelessness, the desire to provide a magical Christmas for their children can feel out of reach. Yet, organizations like COTS Detroit are stepping up to transform this narrative, offering a lifeline of hope and empowerment through their annual Santa Shop toy drive.
COTS Detroit is calling on the community to join their mission to make this holiday season brighter for over 450 families they currently serve. By collecting new, unwrapped toys, the Santa Shop gives parents the chance to “shop” for gifts for their children, fostering a sense of dignity and agency during a time that can feel overwhelmingly disempowering. Scheduled from December 18 to 20, this event does more than simply distribute toys but it restores joy and participation in the holiday tradition of giving.
Rachel Minion, development partner liaison at COTS, explained the program’s profound impact: “Giving season is a crucial time for our families, so we are looking for local businesses, organizations, and individuals to help us make a significant impact this holiday season. Our Santa Shop is a truly special event, providing families with an empowering experience to create lasting holiday memories. It allows them to participate in the magic of the season in a way that honors their needs and preferences.”
For parents grappling with housing instability, the Santa Shop is a moment of empowerment. Wrapping gifts for their children reclaims the joy of parenting in circumstances where joy often feels secondary to survival. This approach recognizes that the spirit of giving, even amidst hardship, can be transformative.
This year, The Elia Group has taken on a leadership role in supporting COTS’ mission. Hosting collection drives at properties like Parc Detroit, Experience Zuzu, and 220 Merrill in Birmingham, the group has committed to donating a minimum of $10,000 in toys. Zaid Elia, Founder and CEO of The Elia Group, underscored the organization’s dedication to community building: “The Elia Group is committed to not only making a positive impact but to building a stronger community through meaningful partnerships. To help spread holiday cheer to local families served by COTS, we’re committed to donating at least $10K worth of toys. We encourage our guests to join us in supporting Detroit families by bringing a toy or two when dining with us. Now through Dec. 17, guests who contribute a toy will receive a complimentary Christmas dessert at our restaurants.”
The impact of such partnerships ripples far beyond the holidays. They reflect a collaborative spirit that uplifts families who might otherwise be left feeling isolated during one of the most community-centered times of the year. Initiatives like this also demonstrate how local businesses and organizations can move beyond corporate social responsibility rhetoric to create real, tangible benefits for those who need it most.
COTS is looking for a variety of toys to meet the diverse interests of the children they serve. For younger kids, items like dolls and action figures are sought after. Older children might find joy in portable speakers, karaoke microphones, or remote-controlled cars. Coloring books and other creative outlets are also encouraged. For added convenience, COTS has created an Amazon Wishlist, allowing donors to contribute directly to the cause without the logistical hurdles of shopping in person.
Beyond toys, COTS has outlined a Greatest Needs list of essential items critical to its broader mission of providing emergency shelter, supportive and affordable housing, and comprehensive resources to families. These items ensure that COTS can continue offering holistic support, not just during the holidays but throughout the year.
For over four decades, COTS has been at the forefront of advocating for families experiencing poverty and homelessness in Detroit. Founded in 1982, the organization manages multiple facilities, a staff of more than 50 people, and an annual budget exceeding $8 million. Serving approximately 1,200 people annually—60 percent of whom are children—COTS goes beyond temporary solutions. Its Passport to Self-Sufficiency™ program helps families achieve housing, economic, health, education, and career goals, providing a pathway to long-term stability.
As the holidays approach, COTS is urging the entire community to come together to meet the needs of the families they support. With 450+ families to serve, the call to action is both urgent and heartfelt. Businesses, organizations, and individuals can partner with COTS by hosting collection drives or scheduling toy drop-offs. For those ready to take the next step, registration and scheduling are made simple through dedicated links provided by COTS. Rachel Minion remains a point of contact for any questions, ensuring that the process is as seamless as possible for those who wish to contribute.
The Santa Shop embodies the heart of what COTS stands for—creating opportunities that empower families to thrive. It’s not just about the toys under the tree; it’s about restoring a sense of agency, dignity, and community to families who often face systemic barriers to stability. As the holiday season approaches, the work of organizations like COTS reminds us that the spirit of giving is not about charity—it’s about solidarity.
For families on the margins, the holidays can be a stark reminder of what’s missing. COTS is flipping that narrative, turning a season of potential despair into one of hope and empowerment. By rallying the community around its mission, the organization is fostering an environment where joy is not just a fleeting moment but a cornerstone for building stronger, more resilient families.
COTS’ ability to mobilize businesses like The Elia Group, alongside countless individual donors, illustrates what can happen when a community prioritizes collective well-being. The Santa Shop toy drive is not simply a gesture of goodwill; it’s a statement that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated.
To get involved, businesses, organizations, and individuals can register their toy drives or schedule drop-offs through COTS’ online resources. These acts of generosity are more than contributions—they are investments in the future of Detroit families.
As we reflect on the meaning of the holiday season, it’s clear that the work being done by COTS isn’t just about providing for the present. It’s about creating a future where families no longer have to choose between stability and joy. It’s about affirming the humanity and potential of every parent and child, regardless of their circumstances. And, most importantly, it’s about reminding us all that community is the greatest gift we can give.
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