The holiday season is upon us, and Positive Pahrump, in partnership with Pahrump Disabilities Outreach Program (P.D.O.P) and Pahrump Valley Fire and Rescue, have officially launched their 14th Annual Toy Drive, bringing the spirit of giving to families across the community. With a mission to ensure that every child experiences the magic of Christmas, the toy drive aims to support families facing financial hardships.
“We couldn’t do this without the amazing people in our community,” said Stephanie Avena, a key organizer. “It truly takes a village to raise a child, and every donation makes a world of difference.”
The toy drive focuses on providing gifts for families who are unable to afford Christmas presents, while another exciting initiative, the Angel Tree program, will be available to lend a little extra holiday cheer to families needing minor assistance. This year, Angel Trees will be placed at Floyd, Hafen, and J.G. Johnson Elementary Schools, as well as Pahrump Valley High School, by the first week of November. Families can sign up for either the toy drive or the Angel Tree assistance, but not both.
“We’ve seen how even a small gesture can bring so much joy,” Avena said. “The toy drive is designed for those who need full support, while the Angel Trees offer extra assistance to make Christmas special.”
David Boruchowitz, President of the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program (PDOP), expressed his gratitude for being part of the event. “I am honored to participate in this toy drive another year. This is the time of year where you realize the good of the people in our community when everyone comes together and provides children with Christmas. This is a magical time, and all of us here at PDOP are grateful for the partnership we’ve had with Positive Pahrump over the years and the heartfelt charity we feel when we participate in this toy drive.”
This year’s toy drive also welcomes new partner Harry Means, whose involvement grew through his friendship with Avena. “It wasn’t a conscious decision to become more involved—it evolved through our discussions about what this year’s toy drive looks like and how we can reach more kids,” Means explained. “Tasks came up that needed to be done, and I just volunteered to take them on.”
For Means, the cause is personal. “As a child, I remember having a Christmas only because of the kindness of strangers donating gifts to me. Because of that experience, it’s been important to me to repay that gesture by doing the same for others. My family and I usually purchase for several kids on the Angel Tree, and by partnering with Stephanie and Positive Pahrump, I’m able to help make a difference for more kids than I could alone.”
For families seeking help through the toy drive, the deadline to apply is December 1st. Interested families can visit P.D.O.P’s website at www.pdop.info to complete the online form. For those unable to fill out the form online, assistance is available by calling 702-516-0847.
Avena encourages local residents and businesses to get involved by contributing to the cause. “If you or your business would like to donate, please reach out to me directly,” she said. “Santa is coming to town, and together, we’ll make sure every child in Pahrump feels that holiday magic.”
Positive Pahrump’s annual toy drive has become a cherished tradition in the community, spreading kindness and joy year after year. As the organization prepares to make this Christmas season one to remember, they emphasize the power of community involvement.
“We are so grateful to everyone who helps make this possible,” Avena added. “Together, we’re building a brighter holiday season, one gift at a time.”
For more information about the toy drive, Angel Tree program, or how to donate, visit the groups’ social media pages at @positivepahrump and @pahrumpdisabilityoutreachprogram, or call 702-516-0847.
This year’s toy drive offers an opportunity for the community to come together, lift spirits, and make the holidays a little brighter for children across Pahrump. As Avena puts it, “Every child deserves a magical Christmas, and we are committed to making that happen.”
