The Houston Fire Department (HFD) will host a kickoff event for its annual Operation Stocking Stuffer holiday toy drive on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 9 a.m. at HFD Fire Station 8, highlighting the department's ongoing effort to bring holiday joy to children and families throughout the Greater Houston area.
Operation Stocking Stuffer, presented by Shell, brings together firefighters, businesses, organizations and community members each year to collect toys for local children. Donations are already being accepted at HFD fire stations throughout Houston, and residents have several ways to support this year's campaign.
“Operation Stocking Stuffer represents the very best of Houston. It is an opportunity for our community to come together, support families and help make the holiday season brighter for children who might otherwise go without,” said Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz. “We encourage businesses, organizations, and individuals to join us in this effort. Every donation, no matter the size, can make a meaningful difference.”
Assistant Fire Chief Richard Galvan, who is leading HFD's Operation Stocking Stuffer effort, encourages businesses, schools, churches and community organizations to organize toy collection drives and help expand the program's reach. Organizations interested in hosting a drive can register through the program's website.
Community members can support Operation Stocking Stuffer by donating new, unwrapped, gender-neutral toys suitable for children of different age groups. Used toys and stuffed animals cannot be accepted. Donations can be dropped off at any HFD fire station through Thursday, December 10.
Toys can also be purchased through the program's Amazon Wish List, with items shipped directly to the Operation Stocking Stuffer collection location, or make monetary contributions through www.osstoydrive.com.
Businesses and organizations hosting collection drives may deliver donations to Operation Stocking Stuffer at 1801 Main Street, 7th Floor, Houston, Texas 77002, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. through Dec. 10. Collection partners needing assistance with toy pickup should contact the OSS team in advance. Pickup arrangements are subject to availability.
The annual toy distribution will take place Saturday, December 12, at Fondé Community Center, 110 Sabine St., Houston, beginning at 8 a.m. Toys will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. No registration is required.
