Holiday Helping Hands

Where to Donate This Holiday Season Across Bay County & the Emerald Coast

As the holiday season arrives, many families across the Emerald Coast are in need of support — and our community is stepping up in a big way. While WKGC will not be hosting its own coat and hoodie drive this year, we remain committed to connecting our listeners with trusted organizations collecting new and gently used toys, clothing, jackets, shoes, and essential items for children, teens, and adults.

Below is a curated list of local donation centers and holiday programs in and around Bay County that are actively accepting contributions for the 2025 holiday season.

🎁 1. Toys For Kids Foundation — Bay County

Location: 1020 W 26th St, Lynn Haven, FL
Website: https://www.toysforkidsbay.org
For more than 35 years, Toys For Kids has made sure local children wake up to Christmas joy. They accept new, unwrapped toys and publish drop-off sites across Bay County. Annual fundraisers also support year-round youth programs.

Most needed items:

  • New toys (all ages)

  • Sports items

  • Dolls, cars, puzzles

  • Gift cards for teens


🎄 2. The Salvation Army – Panama City (Angel Tree Program)

Location: 1824 W 15th St, Panama City, FL
Website: https://salvationarmyflorida.org
The Salvation Army’s annual Angel Tree program provides toys, clothes, and essentials to local children whose families need assistance during the holidays. Donors can choose an angel tag or drop off toys and new clothing at their Panama City location.

Most needed items:

  • New clothing (all sizes)

  • Shoes

  • Toys for ages 0–12

  • Teen gifts (headphones, cosmetics, wallets, cologne sets)

🧥 3. Family Service Agency of Bay County

Location: 114 E 9th St, Panama City, FL
Website: https://familyserviceagencypc.org
Family Service Agency operates a free clothing room for Bay County residents and accepts donations year-round. They also host seasonal holiday programs offering toys, clothing, and household essentials to families in need.

Most needed items:

  • Gently used clothing (infant–adult)

  • Jackets, sweaters, shoes

  • Baby essentials

  • Small household items


♻️ 4. Goodwill Big Bend – Donation Center (Multiple Locations)

Primary Bay County Location: 2520 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL
Website: https://goodwillbigbend.org
Goodwill accepts a wide variety of gently used items to support workforce development programs and community initiatives throughout Northwest Florida.

Most needed items:

  • Clothing (all ages)

  • Toys

  • Small household goods

  • Shoes, jackets, accessories

👜 5. Save The Closet — Panama City Beach

Location: 12202 Hutchison Blvd, Suite 400, Panama City Beach, FL
Website: https://savethecloset.com
Save The Closet provides free clothing and essentials to individuals affected by hardship. They accept quality gently used clothing and accessories for men, women, and children.

Most needed items:

  • Gently used or new clothing

  • Children’s clothing & coats

  • Shoes, handbags, accessories

  • Holiday items & toys (varies by location)


🌟 Additional Ways to Give Along the Emerald Coast

Many local churches, schools, and civic organizations are also conducting seasonal drives. Listeners can check with:

  • Local Title I schools

  • Area churches

  • Community centers

  • Rotary & Kiwanis Clubs

  • Sheriff’s Office holiday assistance programs

🤝 WKGC Public Media: Supporting Our Community

WKGC remains dedicated to uplifting our neighbors across Bay County and the Emerald Coast. If your organization is hosting a holiday donation drive and would like to be added to this list, please contact us at wkgc.org or message WKGC Public Media on Facebook or Instagram.

Together, we can make the holiday season brighter for families across the Emerald Coast.

Angela Small

Creative Producer

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