Journey Like June to Host Toy Drive Drop-Off at Illinois Local Holiday Market

Journey Like June will host a drop-off box at the 5th annual Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday to collect donations for its annual holiday toy drive.

The Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday, November 29, brings together artisans, small businesses, and community organizations from across the state for a day of shopping, giving, and celebration. 

Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Journey Like June booth to learn more about the organization's mission and to help brighten the holidays for children in need by donating a new, unwrapped toy.

"The Holiday Market is such a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together," said Ali Peden of Journey Like June. "We're thrilled to be part of this event and to collect toys that will bring joy to local children and families this season."

In a special collaboration, Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop will be offering a 20% discount to shoppers who purchase items at the Holiday Market and donate to the Journey Like June Toy Drive that day. This partnership aims to inspire more community members to give back while supporting local small businesses.

"Supporting local nonprofits is just as important as supporting local businesses — both strengthen the heart of our community," said Ryan Leake, owner of Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop. "We’re proud to partner with Journey Like June to help bring a little extra joy to families who need it most this holiday season."

The toy drive is part of Journey Like June's ongoing commitment to enrich the lives of children affected by childhood cancer through fierce advocacy, familial support, and education. Its mission is to help carry the load, no matter how heavy, and ensure that no child or their family feels alone.

The toy drive, which runs from November 15 through the Illinois Local Holiday Market, benefits patients at the new day hospital at St. John’s Pediatrics in Springfield, which Journey Like June is sponsoring.

For more information about Journey Like June, the toy drive, or how to get involved, please visit journeylikejune.org. For more information about the Illinois Local Holiday Market, visit illinoislocal.org.