The 13th annual Bank Independent Toy Share Drive collected 3,517 toys and $2,519.16 in cash between Nov. 6 and Dec. 8. All donations were distributed to local children in need through partner organizations across North Alabama in time for the holidays.

Toy Share is the last of four annual share drives hosted by Bank Independent to give back to the community as part of the Helping Hands Foundation. Since Toy Share started in 2011, more than 42,000 items and more than $48,000 in cash have been donated to families in our local communities. The total economic impact has surpassed the $1 million mark.

“We are so grateful to everyone who donated toys, time and resources to help spread joy to children in need this holiday season,” said Macke Mauldin, president and CEO of BancIndependent. Inc. “This year’s toy share drive was an enormous success thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. Your kindness sets a great example for how we can make a positive difference as a community as we move into 2024.”

This year, the bank accepted donations from team members at all 32 Bank Independent locations. Additionally, the bank established an Amazon wish list for online shoppers and accepted monetary donations through PayPal.

“The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and giving back. This year, Bank Independent is proud to help spread holiday cheer to children in need through our annual Toy Share drive,” said Hallie Mauldin, community engagement leader for Bank Independent. “We are so grateful for the charitable organizations that work alongside us to distribute the toys to those in need in our communities.”

Charitable organizations distributing Toy Share donations include the Department of Human Resources of Franklin County, DHR of Lawrence County, Cornerstone Church of Moulton, Angel Tree Program with Lexington High School, DHR of Limestone County, Christmas Charities Year-Round of Madison County, Committee on Church Cooperation of Morgan County, William Porter Foundation in the Shoals, Shoals CASA, Safeplace of the Shoals, North Alabama Christian Children’s Home and the Rogersville Volunteer Fire Department.

More information on all the share drives and the Helping Hands Foundation can be found at www.bibank.com/helping-hands-foundation.