Salem, OR. — Marion County kicked off its 2025 Project Joy Toy Drive on November 12, celebrating a program that supports foster, adoptive, guardianship, and relative care families by easing financial strain and reminding local children that they are valued and loved. The launch presentation underscored both the practical assistance and emotional impact Project Joy provides to youth across the county.
Workforce Development Coordinator Kathy Bolen highlighted last year’s achievements, noting the generosity of county employees.
“Last year, our employees supported 30 families and nearly 180 children, purchasing over 300 gifts ranging from toys and clothes to diapers and hygiene products,” Bolen said. “Together, we raised more than $8,000 to brighten the holidays for Marion County kids.”
One of the most powerful moments came from high school senior Riley Warren, a former foster youth who now serves as the teen representative on Project Joy’s board. Warren shared how receiving a Project Joy backpack during her first foster placement changed her life.
“When I was placed into foster care, I arrived with nothing,” she said. “Project Joy gave me a backpack filled with clothes, pajamas, and a pink teddy bear. That bear gave me my first safe place. It wasn’t just stuff—it was a powerful message that I mattered, that I was seen, and that I deserved comfort. Project Joy doesn’t just give material items, they restore childhoods and plant seeds of hope.”
Commissioners Colm Willis and Kevin Cameron expressed gratitude to employees, partners, and residents who make the effort possible each year.
“It’s not necessarily the material things that matter, it’s the hope, and the reminder that you matter,” Cameron said. “Hearing Riley’s story shows how this project makes a difference in personal lives and how giving back continues the cycle of hope.”
The 2025 Project Joy Toy Drive runs from November 17 through December 12. Community members can donate toys, toiletries, diapers, or monetary contributions. Gift donations may be dropped off at Courthouse Square, 555 Court Street NE, Human Resources Office, 4th Floor (Suite 4250). Monetary donations should be made out to the Oregon Resource Family Alliance.
“When you support Project Joy, you’re not just donating toys—you’re giving a child hope, dignity, and the chance to finally be a kid,” Warren said.
The presentation, including Riley Warren’s full story, can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POhirpklCkM&t=1s.
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