Shapiro Administration Donates 1,085 Stuffed Toys to PA Families

Pennsylvania state inspectors approved 1,052 stuffed toys for sale across the commonwealth this year, including 100 manufactured with recycled materials.

The Pennsylvania Departments of Labor & Industry and Human Services announced the inspection totals on the eve of their annual holiday donation drive, where approved sample toys are handed over for distribution to families in need.

The Shapiro administration is donating 1,085 stuffed toys this holiday season through the Department of Human Services Holiday Wish program, an increase from 749 donated toys last year, according to pa.gov.

Started in 1989 by agency workers, the program connects state employees with families and older adults identified by local County Assistance Offices. Families apply for assistance through the COMPASS website, and state employees participate in programs like the Holiday Wish program to help families in need during the holiday season.

This annual tradition reminds us of what public service is truly about: protecting people’s safety while spreading hope and joy to families across Pennsylvania, Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said in a statement reported by pa.gov.

Under the Stuffed Toy Manufacturing Act, enforced by the Bureau of Occupational and Industrial Safety, inspectors test new toy samples for flammability, material composition, design safety, and choking hazards.

Manufacturers intending to sell or distribute stuffed toys in Pennsylvania must register with the Department of Labor & Industry; toys that pass inspection get a registration number. Governor Josh Shapiro signed Act 30 into law last year, eliminating a previous ban on recycled materials in stuffed toys while maintaining standards for safe production and proper labeling.

The Department of Human Services works every day to make it possible for people to achieve a better life, whether that’s through assistance in accessing essential basic needs like food and health care, or by giving back to families who may be in difficult circumstances through our Holiday Wish program, DHS Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes stated in records published by pa.gov.

Families requiring financial support can contact County Assistance Offices for benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Medical Assistance. Caseworkers at these local offices evaluate families and older adults for participation in the Holiday Wish distribution events supported by commonwealth agencies and the Pennsylvania National Guard.