Seasons Greetings Everyone,

We hope everyone is well so far this holiday season. This year, Triangle Empowerment Center (TEC), applied to become a partner with Toys for Tots. The good news is we were accepted! As you may know, Toys for Tots has been a major help for many, many families across the nation. Their mission is “to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November, and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community." Unfortunately, I must inform you that, according to Toys for Tots, “this year’s donations were at a record all-time low” so many families are having to receive news of no toys for them this year.

It is for that reason that TEC has decided to look into other resources, as well as work with our community partners, towards making other accommodations for the many families in need as much as we possibly can. Especially for the many children who have never possessed toys of their own.

For those that don’t know, TEC is a nonprofit, community-based, 501(c )3 organization in Durham, NC. Our services include, but not limited to, STD/STI testing, prevention, education, community outreach, PrEP education & linkage, COVID-19 testing & linkage, food pantry, needle exchange, condom distribution, emergency/transitional housing, and referrals for various services.

For clarity, this campaign is not to bash or to put Toys for Tots in any negative light. We simply want to find a solution for families who are affected by the lack of toys for their children. If you, or someone you know, can help in any way, shape or form to help get some toys to families in need, please reach out to us. It is our hope that our agency will be able to acquire something for the families in need by 12/23/22. TEC has always been dedicated to serving the community and we will continue to do so.

All cash donations go towards gifts for families in need (and of course tax deductible). If you need any additional information, feel free to reach out. We can be reached via email ([email redacted]). You can also feel free to visit our website at https://triempowerment.org. Thank you all for your time and attention and we hope you all have a wonderful, safe and blessed holiday season!