Nicaragua

On December 15th, the ORPHANetwork (ONET) and the Toy Movement brought the gift of play to 13,000 children living in impoverished areas across Nicaragua. A five-person team from Spin Master joined forces with ONET to distribute toys, just in time for Christmas.

Working with a network of Local Church Initiatives (LCIs) – which currently support 23,000 kids throughout Nicaragua – the team was able to address gifts to each child by name. For many children, this was the first time they had received a present. The moment was made even more special when children saw their name handwritten on their giftwrapped toy.

Over the course of four days, the team was able to visit LCIs in several regions of Nicaragua, including the country’s capital, Managua, and the mounts of rural Matagalpa.

Behind the scenes, 135 volunteers individually wrapped 13,000 toys in less than one day. Due to the incredible partnerships, selfless volunteers, and donated toys, thousands of children began the holiday season with big smiles.

The Toy Movement aims to distribute more than 500,000 toys to 500,000 children in 2018, delivering inspiration, imagination, and joy to children in troubled parts of the world.

Past Missions

Asia

January 2024 - January 2025

China

The Toy Movement partnered with Save the Children Canada to bring more than 20,000 toys to children in need in China. In China, children’s mental health and well-being has been challenged by rapid urbanization, digital transformation and large-scale population movements leading to changes in family structures. In urban areas, working parents often spend little time with their children. In rural communities, many “left-behind children” are raised by grandparents while their parents work in cities. Through this project, we were able to play a key role in building mental health support systems crucial to responding to children’s emotional and developmental needs.

Africa

October 2024

Zimbabwe

In partnership with World Vision Canada, The Toy Movement reached 12,160 children in Zimbabwe by bringing toys into classrooms across the country. Teachers observed improved attendance, attitudes, and confidence as lessons in math, science, and reading came to life through play. Through independent and group activities, children built social skills, cooperation, and self-confidence while rediscovering the joy of learning.

Africa

October 2024

Zambia

In partnership with World Vision Canada, The Toy Movement reached 10,244 children in Zambia by delivering educational toys to schools across the country. Teachers reported decreased absenteeism as children became more excited to attend classes that now include hands-on, playful learning. Games, puzzles, and sports equipment helped students develop problem-solving skills, coordination, teamwork, and cooperation—turning learning into an engaging and joyful experience.

SEE ALL MISSIONS