Empowering Youth.

General gift drives bring wonderful toys & books for kids and there are some amazing toy drives in our communities. But there is a need for one focused on high-quality STEM-Themed gifts for older kids.

We’re increasing equitable access to toys, games, and books that will inspire and prepare at-risk youth for STEM hobbies & careers. Make a difference with us as a volunteer, sponsor, gift drive host, or donor!

The STEM Gift Drive communities are volunteer-led initiatives that serve a charity under an MOU. The host charity receives all of the gifts and distributes them to future innovators who otherwise may not have access to such STEMtastic, inspiring toys, games, and books.

Frequent Questions

What is the STEM Gift Drive?

A volunteer-powered campaign that collects new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) toys, games, and books to help expand access to STEM exploration and inspire future innovators.

Who receives the gifts?

Each STEM Gift Drive community partners with an approved local charitable organization that receives and distributes the gifts collected in that community. Visit Our Communities in the main menu to learn about the local beneficiary and campaign in each area.

What kind of gifts should I donate?

New, unwrapped STEM toys, games, books, kits, and other items related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, primarily for middle- and high-school youth. Visit our Gift Guide for details.

Can my business participate?

Yes. Businesses, organizations, clubs, living communities, families, and other groups can host a STEM Gift Drive collection. Use our Host a Collection form to sign up.

When does the STEM Gift Drive take place?

The official annual campaign begins November 1 and concludes with Elfing Day on or near December 21. Collection hosts are also welcome to organize STEM gift collections at other times during the year.

Wait, what is “Elfing Day”?

It’s one of our favorite STEM Gift Drive traditions! Elfing Day is our annual final collection day, when local collection hosts and individual donors bring together the STEM gifts they’ve collected. Each community hosts its own Elfing Day or final collection activities, so check your local STEM Gift Drive page for details.

Is this a Christmas toy drive?

No. The STEM Gift Drive is a secular initiative and is not affiliated with any religious organization or holiday. Our primary campaign takes place during the year-end giving season, allowing donors to take advantage of seasonal sales and promotions while offering a STEM-focused alternative—or additional giving opportunity—to other seasonal gift drives.

Depending on the local beneficiary, gifts may be distributed during the holiday season or used to support STEM programming and youth engagement throughout the year.

See our Inclusion & Belonging Statement.

Can I support the STEM Gift Drive even if I don’t live in a host city?

Absolutely! Choose the STEM Gift Drive community you’d like to support. Each community page includes its local Amazon Wish List and, when available, a link to make a monetary contribution directly to that community’s charitable beneficiary.

Can I donate money?

STEM Gift Drive does not directly accept monetary donations. Our charitable partners may provide dedicated online giving options for individuals who prefer to give financially or for groups that want to host fundraisers. Contributions made through these portals go directly to the benefiting charitable organization and are designated to support the STEM Gift Drive partnership. This allows us to include those contributions in our campaign impact while ensuring the funds are used for the purposes established with our charitable partner.

Can I get a receipt for my donation?

Any charitable donation acknowledgment or receipt must be provided by the charitable organization receiving the gifts, and procedures may vary by beneficiary. If you would like to request a receipt, please complete our Donation Form and follow the instructions for your local STEM Gift Drive community. If you need a receipt and are unsure of the requirements, contact STEM Gift Drive before donating so we can help you confirm the appropriate process.