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Gifting Joy to Young Patients: Toy and Book Drive for WakeMed Children's Hospital

Writer: Laura Magruder
Laura Magruder
12 minutes ago
2 min read



In the mood to spread some holiday cheer to those who need it most?

We know we are!


This year, Prickly Pear Salon is collecting for WakeMed Children's Hospital to support young patients and their families during their hospital stay and make sure they have something special to celebrate with. From November 4 through December 11, 2026, we're collecting new, unwrapped toys and books right here at the salon in Cary, NC.


The holidays are packed, so here are a few ways to join in.


Drop off a gift at our front desk


Bring new, unwrapped toys and books to Prickly Pear Salon, 684B Cary Towne Blvd, Cary, NC. We're collecting for every age, from infants and toddlers all the way up to teenagers. Think baby dolls and toy trucks, basketball hoops and journals.


Gift ideas by age


Not sure what to grab? Here are detailed suggestions for each age group.


INFANTS AND TODDLERS

  • Pop-Up toys

  • Infant Musical & Light Up Toys by V-tech, Fisher Price, Leap Frog, Playschool

  • Infant Rattles/Teethers- Infant keys, Infantino Go Gaga brand, Rain makers, Oball brand, Fisher Price

  • Interactive Toys by V-tech, Fisher Price, Leap Frog, Playschool

  • Themed toys- Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse, Daniel Tiger, Ms. Rachel, Disney Princess, Puppy Dog Pals, T.O.T.S.

  • Pull ups (various sizes)

  • Bottle Brushes

  • Sippy cups

PRESCHOOL

  • Dramatic Play Toys (doctor kits, tool kits, food play, tea sets, dress up kits)

  • Interactive toys by V-tech, Fisher Price, Leap Frog, Playschool

  • Trucks/Cars

  • Themed toys- PJ Mask, Superheroes, Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse, Disney Princess, Puppy Dog Pals, and Bluey

  • Character Figurines - SuperKitties, Ms. Rachel, Spidey and His Amazing Friends, and Minecraft

  • Dinosaurs/Animals

  • Little People-People and animals

  • Multicultural Baby Dolls

  • Puzzles (24-100 pieces only please)

SCHOOL AGE

  • Action Figures/Superheroes

  • Dolls/Barbies

  • Hot Wheels/Matchbox Cars

  • Lego Kits- Lego Creator, Lego City, and Lego Friends kits (50-300 pieces Only)

  • Animal Figures/Dinosaurs

  • Princess Figures

  • MANGA/Graphic Novels/Comic Books

TEENAGERS

  • Manicure Sets/Nail polish

  • Nerf balls and basketball hoop set

  • Phone chargers and cubes (iPhone, Android & Type C)

  • Headphones or Earbuds

  • Find-A-Word Books/Word Puzzle Books

  • Journals

  • Colorful Pen Sets

  • Mandalas Coloring Books

  • Young Adult Novels (Paperback preferred)

ARTS AND CRAFTS

  • Activity/Coloring Books

  • Activity Sets/Crafts

  • Crayola Grab N Go Kits

  • Crayons, Colored Pencils, Washable Markers

  • Jewelry Making Kits

  • Play-Doh

  • Premade Slime Kits

MISCELLANEOUS

  • Board books and picture books (including multicultural and bilingual books)

  • Brand New Stuffed Animals with Tags

  • Board/card games

  • Metal Free Sports Bras


Can't make it to the salon? Give online!


You can make a monetary donation or order from the hospital's wish list through the WakeMed Foundation.






Help us spread the word


Tag @wakemedhospitals on Instagram and Facebook when you share the drive. Everything from a gift to telling a friend helps make the holidays special for these kids.


Drive details


What can I donate?

New, unwrapped toys and books for infants through teens. Monetary donations go through the WakeMed Foundation link.

Where do I drop off?

At the front desk of Prickly Pear Salon, 684B Cary Towne Blvd, Cary, NC.

When does the drive run?

November 4 through December 11, 2026.

Where do the gifts go?

We deliver everything we collect to WakeMed Raleigh on December 12.

Questions?

Text the salon at (919) 884-5740.


With gratitude,

The Prickly Pear Salon Team


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