Christmas Store
Annual Neighborhood Christmas Store
Joy to the world! The LORD has come! Bring joy and the gift of giving to this community.
Neighborhood Christmas Store 2024
The Neighborhood Christmas Store is coming! On site at Parker Street Ministries, we’re expecting a lot of shoppers and need about 2,800 gifts to be donated or funded!
Please stock the store, multiply joy, and affirm dignity in another year that has been hard on so many in our neighborhoods. There will be many volunteer opportunities this year including sorting and moving toys, wrapping presents, and more. SO we are counting on volunteers more than ever to bring the year to a happy close for neighborhood families!
Below are ways you can bring generosity and joy to two neighborhoods: Parker Street and North Lake Wire. Email christmas@psmlakeland.org with any questions.
As you choose from any of these options, spread your joy by taking pictures of your family, toy drives, and more. Tag PSM or email your photos to Sarah Breed at sarah@psmlakeland.org.
Ways to Join!
Donate Toys
Shop our wish list on Amazon OR use the wish list provided below.
Have gifts delivered (by 12/9) or shipped (no later than 11/30) to Parker Street Ministries, 719 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Donate Funds
Give to Parker Street Ministries online and designate to Neighborhood Christmas Store or mail a check to Parker Street Ministries, 719 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801. We will use it to round out the store and stock the shelves with the latest items!
*Funds received in excess of supply needs will go toward the year-round Academic Enrichment Program.
Host a Toy Drive
Perfect for schools, churches, small groups, businesses, and more!
Drop off toys (new and unwrapped) at Parker Street Ministries, 719 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801, Monday-Friday, by 12/9.
Email christmas@psmlakeland.org with any questions.
Four Ways to Volunteer
- If you are interested in volunteering, please let us know so we can keep you updated on opportunities. Email christmas@psmlakeland.org for details.
- Share about the store!
- Invite a PSM staff member to speak your groups. Email christmas@psmlakeland.org.
- Pray for safe and smooth operations to come together and for the love and hope of Jesus to shine through our store.
The Store’s Story
Our holiday ministries run a little differently. There are no sponsored families, no used toys, no well-intentioned strangers appearing at the door laden with gifts and food. Instead, we host a fully functioning neighborhood store for several days in December. We receive brand new toys and funds to purchase toys from many individuals and groups. Toys are discounted 75% and lovingly placed on shelves. The desire is to build the dignity of parents who will have the opportunity to select and purchase new toys for their own children. The money goes right back into the store. The outcome for everyone is joy, generosity, and community!
One parent said, “It’s not like a yard sale. It’s like what you would find in a store—only with much lower prices! I feel like I can actually shop for my kids’ Christmas here.” Another first-time shopping mom said, “I love that this store is for our neighborhood—not just because I’m poor.”
Through the support of schools, churches, businesses, and individuals, PSM sets up a fully functioning store on site (719 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland, FL 33801). Families living in the Parker Street and North Lake Wire neighborhoods are invited to register and shop for new toys.
To download the store’s story, click here for a shareable link.
Christmas Gift Ideas (Expand for List)
- Teen bedroom accessories/décor: pillows, lamps, wall art, etc.
- Teen make-up, nail polish
- Teen cologne/perfume
- Teen fitness equipment
- Electronic phone accessories: speakers, chargers, etc.
- Art supplies for children & teens
- Jewelry for children & teens
- Lotion and hair accessories for children & teens
- Purses and wallets for children & teens
- Dolls/Barbie dolls (Black, Hispanic)
- Footballs, basketballs, kickballs
- Educational toys, games, and puzzles
- Skateboards
- Baby/infant toys
- Preschool toys
- Funds to buy wheeled items
- LEGO toys of all sizes
- Preschool dress-up/role playing outfits/supplies
- Christmas wrapping supplies: gift bags and bike-bags (all sizes from small to large), tape, bows, scissors, gift tags, and wrapping paper