JOHN & ELIZABETH'S HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE MARKS A QUARTER-CENTURY

A tradition built on love, community, and giving rallies to bring holiday joy to 10,000 more children throughout Broward County

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- After providing toys to 90,000 children over 24 years, John & Elizabeth's Toy Drive marks its 25th anniversary with a goal of reaching 10,000 more Broward County Public Schools Title I elementary students this holiday season — bringing its total impact to 100,000 children.

For many children, the holidays mean excitement, laughter, and gifts under the tree. But for too many families, even providing a single toy can be a struggle. For 25 years, the Toy Drive has worked with local schools and community partners to help ensure children in need experience the joy of the season and know they are seen, valued, and cared for.

Founded in 2001 by Dr. Elizabeth King and her late husband, John Weaver, what began in the couple's home as a simple act of kindness has grown into a major South Florida holiday tradition powered by donors, sponsors, community partners, and volunteers.

"A toy is so much more than a gift. Children learn, grow and develop through play, and a special toy reminds a child they are seen, cared for and that they matter," said King, an educator and mental health professional with four decades of experience working with children and families, including 20 years with Broward County Public Schools specializing in dropout prevention and supporting at-risk youth.

"For 25 years, this community has opened its heart to children who would otherwise go without," King continued. "We are asking individuals and businesses to lock arms with us once again so more children can experience moments of hope and joy they will carry with them for a lifetime."

For the fourth consecutive year, Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick Foundation (SSL Foundation), co-founded by Dr. Elizabeth King, is partnering with the Fort Lauderdale Black Police Officers Association (FLBPOA) to help reach Broward County Public Schools' Title I elementary students. Toys are distributed directly to children at their schools, helping ensure each child receives something special for the holidays.

A major fundraiser supporting this year's Toy Drive, the 25th Anniversary Winter Wonderland Gala will be held Monday, Nov. 16, 2026, at Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, located at 505 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. The resort serves as the event's underwriting title sponsor and host.

The black-tie-optional evening will begin with a founders' VIP reception from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by the gala from 6 to 9:30 p.m., featuring dinner, live music, dancing and a live auction.

The Toy Drive sponsors and community partners include the City of Fort Lauderdale, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Encore, GEL Services, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Central Beach Alliance, Toys for Tots, and Neighbors 4 Neighbors. Media partners include WPLG Local 10, Go Riverwalk Magazine and TravelHost.

Honorary chairwomen are Ina Lee, president of TravelHost; Julie Guy, 101.5 LITE FM radio personality; Dr. Angela Fulton, deputy superintendent of Broward County Public Schools; and philanthropist and community leader Kate Nelson. WPLG Local 10 reporter Saira Anwer returns as celebrity emcee.

There are many ways for the community to be part of this milestone year and help bring holiday joy to 10,000 more children. Individuals, businesses, and organizations can donate, purchase toys through the Amazon Wish List, become a sponsor, donate a silent auction item, host a toy collection at a workplace, holiday party, or community event, or volunteer to help organize, sort, and distribute toys. Supporters can also attend the 25th Anniversary Winter Wonderland Gala. Every $25 donated helps reach another child and brings the Toy Drive one step closer to its goal of reaching 100,000 children.

For donations, gala tickets, sponsorship opportunities,  the Amazon Wish List, volunteer information, and more ways to participate, visit SSLWomen.org/25th-annual-toy-drive.

MEDIA NOTE: High-resolution photos, interviews with Dr. Elizabeth King, and additional media materials are available upon request. Email [email protected]

ABOUT JOHN & ELIZABETH'S TOY DRIVE
Founded in 2001 by Dr. Elizabeth King and her late husband, John Weaver, John & Elizabeth's Toy Drive began with a simple idea: Instead of bringing host gifts to the couple's annual Christmas party, friends were asked to bring toys for children who would otherwise go without. What began as a heartfelt tradition in their home has grown into a major South Florida holiday effort that has brought hope and joy to 90,000 children. Today, the Toy Drive works with local schools and community partners to reach children throughout Broward County. Learn more at SSLWomen.org/what-we-do/toy-drive.

ABOUT SUITS, STILETTOS AND LIPSTICK FOUNDATION
Founded by Dr. Elizabeth King, Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering women and children from all walks of life to become resilient, self-confident, and purposeful leaders through education, mentorship, and community outreach. Its vision is a world where all women and children have the opportunity to thrive.

Learn more at SSLWomen.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dr. Elizabeth King
Founder and Chief Inspiration Officer
Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick Foundation
[email protected]

SOURCE Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick Foundation